The lighthouse was originally built to guide steamboats down the Schuykill River. Ideas for a lighthouse to provide safety for river users appeared in meeting minutes dating back to the 1820s. It wasn't until the early 1880s was a formal request made for a lighthouse. It was listed as necessary, but not urgent, the therefore delayed for a few more years. In 1887, the Fairmount Park Commission granted approval for a lighthouse to be built near Turtle Rock – a rock formation, resembling a giant tortoise shell, located on the hill above the boathouses. Turtle Rock Lighthouse was constructed in 1887 by Frank Thurwanger at a cost of $2,663 on a plot of land just west of boathouse row. The brick lighthouse supports a hexagonal lantern room surrounded by an octagonal walkway. Gas was first used to power the light, but in 1990, when the lighthouse was re-pointed and received a new wooden balustrade and newel posts, the beacon was electrified.
Tower Information
Tower Height: 30.00'
Focal Plane: Unknown
Active Aid to Navigation: Yes
Located at 15 Kelly Drive on Boathouse Row on the eastern shore of the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia.
GPS: Latitude: +39.97000, Longitude -75.19000
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