The Burlington breakwater was constructed to accommodate increased commercial traffic on Lake Champlain following the opening of the Champlain Canal in 1823, connecting Lake Champlain and the Hudson River. In 1826, the first federal lighthouse, Juniper Island Light, was erected to guide mariners into Burlington’s port. As the breakwater expanded, it required illumination of its own.

The original Burlington breakwater lights went into service on the north and south ends of the breakwater in 1857. A middle light was added in 1890. The original structures were all-wood and were destroyed by ice. Over the years, several attempts were made to maintain wooden lights on the breakwater--all succumbed to ice. Ultimately the lights were replaced by steel light towers: the North and Middle lights in 1925 and the South light in 1950. Briefly, a keepers house was installed on the breakwater but remained empty for a decade, at which time it was sold at auction, relocated and is now a private residence in Burlington.

Today, the North and South lights are being replaced by replica lighthouses designed to withstand the environmental challenges that plagued previous lighthouses on the breakwater. The replica lights are fully functioning Aids to Navigation; defining and illuminating the ends of the breakwater.

This project and the rehabilitation of the Burlington Breakwater was made possible through the continuing support of Senator Patrick Leahy.  Join Senator Leahy, Mayor Peter Clavelle, and representatives from the United States Coast Guard for the relighting ceremony on September 12, 2003, with music, dedication speeches, kids activities, and the formal relighting of the two historic replica towers. The festivities begin at 6PM in Waterfront Park and are free and open to the public.