The tower was replaced in 1851 for the first time; in 1858, due to its poor foundations and soil quality, it sank into the ground.

[2] It had a focal plane 128 feet (39 m) above mean lake level and a range of 17 nautical miles (20 mi; 31 km).

[4][5] A total of 2 to 4 acres (1 to 2 ha) of land overlooking the entrance to the channel into Presque Isle Bay was ceded by Brigadier General John Kelso of the Pennsylvania militia on April 2, 1811 for the lighthouse.

[6] To ensure the third tower remain sturdy, unlike its predecessors, the foundation was dug 20 feet (6 m) deep.

On the recommendation of the naval inspector for the lighthouse district, the Erie Land Light was deactivated in 1880; it was sold for $1,800.

[6] After much public outcry, the lighthouse was repurchased in 1884 for double the amount and was reactivated the next year by an act of Congress.

[10][7][11] In 1886, the lighthouse was again decommissioned, though caretakers were still appointed and the beacon continued to operate until December 26, 1899 when it was finally extinguished.

[14] The lighthouse's interior stairs and over 200 bricks were replaced, and a 6,300-pound (2,860 kg) copper replica of the original lantern room was built.

[17] The Erie–Western Pennsylvania Port Authority proposed in 2005 to take ownership of the Land Light from the city to increase its tourism potential, and, in 2010, to assume responsibility for the maintenance of the grounds surrounding the lighthouse.