Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

The First Natural Gas Lighthouse: Finished in 1829, the 40-foot tall Barcelona Lighthouse (Portland Harbor) was the very first natural gas lighthouse in the world. It was in Federal Lighthouse Service until 1859. At that time it became privately held through various owners until 2007, when New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation acquired it. Though it no longer has the original lens, nor is used for navigational purposes, it is still lit and visible today through an agreement with the Town of Westfield. The lighthouse is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historical Places. 

*****Please note that due to the Revitalization Project beginning in 2024, some areas of the grounds and the tower base may not be open at the time of your visit. The Project is intended to rehabilitate the tower with the goal of public access to the top of the tower during the first phase of the project. 

The opportunity to make a donation to and obtain more information about the Barcelona Lighthouse Revitalization Project is available online through the Natural Heritage Trust website.

For all business with the Barcelona Harbor and beaches, please contact the Barcelona Harbormaster at 716-326-6633 or visit the Barcelona Harbor website.

The Barcelona Lighthouse participates in the US Lighthouse Society's Passport Club. While visiting during open hours, you can have your passport stamped on site. To obtain a stamp in the off-season, please send a long self-addressed, stamped envelope and the paper/card you want the stamp placed on to the address above. 

Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed on the property per visitor unit. Pets are to be supervised at all times and on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in buildings (this does not apply to service animals).