Put In Bay: The Haunted Lighthouse

In July 1897, the South Bass Island Lighthouse was officially opened, featuring a beautiful red brick building that was both charming and practical. This historic lighthouse was built to help guide ships safely through the often dangerous waters of Lake Erie, making sure they could reach the harbor without trouble. The lighthouse was managed by a keeper named Harry Riley, who later hired Samuel Anderson as a caretaker. Samuel lived in a small, dark cellar beneath the lighthouse, a cozy but eerie place where he could hear the gentle waves and the creaking of the old structure.

Despite the isolation, Samuel adjusted to his new life and even became friends with some of the local snakes, keeping a few as pets that would lounge around his space.

Unfortunately, tragedy struck when a smallpox outbreak affected nearby communities, spreading fear throughout the island. Terrified of getting sick, Samuel tried to escape to the mainland for safety. Unfortunately, soldiers who were sent to contain the outbreak caught him and brought him back to his cellar, where he felt increasingly alone and trapped.

In a strange turn of events, not long after being returned, Samuel Anderson was found dead on the rocky cliffs surrounding the island. His passing remains a haunting memory of his troubled life. Today, visitors to the lighthouse often hear strange sounds coming from the basement where Samuel lived—soft rustling, whispers from the past, and some wonder if Samuel’s spirit lingers there, forever connected to the lighthouse he once called home.

Haunted Lighthouse at Put-in-Bay

Nearby Visits:

Fairport Harbor Lighthouse: Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake County, Fairport Harbor Lighthouse stands tall as a radiant beacon of safety, guiding countless ships and sailors through the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes.

Headlands Beach-Ohio’s longest beach

Johnson’s Island– Confederate Civil War Cemetery.

Maumee Bay State Park– Maumee Bay State Park is a popular destination known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The park features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and birdwatching, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of Maumee Bay and the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.

Kelleys Island and Middle Bass Island, nestled amidst the shimmering expanse of Lake Erie, have long captivated the imaginations of locals and visitors alike with their legendary tales of mysterious lights.

Cedar Point is a 364-acre amusement park located on a Lake Erie peninsula in Sandusky, Ohio owned and operated by Six Flags. Features a private mile-long beach. It opened in 1870 and is considered the second-oldest operating amusement park in the US. Cear Point is the largest amusement ride park in the world as it offers over 150 rides (including 17 roller coasters), shows, and attractions.

The African Safari Wildlife Park is a drive through wildlife park in Port Clinton, Ohio. Visitors can drive through the 65-acre preserve and watch and feed the animals from their car.

The Watering Hole – Ohio Safari Zoo and Waterpark is an indoor/outdoor family fun center with waterslides, a go-kart track, an arcade & a mini-golf course.

Catawba Island State park near Port Clinton serves as the main headquarters for the Lake Erie Islands state parks (including Kelleys Island, South Bass and Oak Point), and provides a fishing pier, launch ramp, picnic shelter and picnic areas for day-use visitors

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, west of Port Clinton, is one of the state’s foremost birding areas and is notable for its spring and fall bird migrations

East Harbor State Park on Marblehead Peninsula sports the largest campground in the Ohio state park system • Swimming, picnicking, boating and fishing are popular at East Harbor

Marblehead Lighthouse, built in 1821, is the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation of the Great Lakes and Ohio’s 73rd state park • It is located off S.R. 163 on the east side of the Village of Marblehead

Ohio State nature preserves located in the area include  Sheldon Marsh, Old Woman Creek, Erie Sand Barrens, and DuPont Marsh

For more information on area attractions, visit

Lake Erie Shores & Islands Welcome Center(s) 

South Bass Island (Put in Bay) South Bass Island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and rich history. The island boasts picturesque landscapes featuring lush green parks, scenic waterfronts, and breathtaking views of Lake Erie. Visitors can explore charming shops and local eateries in the quaint village of Put-in-Bay, which serves as a hub for tourists.

Additionally, the island offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, hiking, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically significant sites, such as the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, also highlight the island’s importance in American history. Overall, South Bass Island is a captivating spot for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a glimpse into the region’s past.

Click here for Ferries to Middle Bass and Put in Bay

If you don’t have your own boat, 2 privately operated ferries offer frequent daily service:

For more detailed info about Miller Ferry, please click here!

Miller Boat Line offers service for cars, RVS, bicyclists, & pedestrians from the mainland at Catawba • visit www.millerferry.com or call 800-500-2421 for information

The Jet Express offers service for pedestrians from Port Clinton and Sandusky • visit www.jet-express.com or call 800-245-1538 for information