Land for the Port Ontario Lighthouse Reservation was purchased from Sylvester and Daniel Brown by the Federal Government on September 1, 1837.

Jacob Gould, Superintendent of Lighthouses on Lake Ontario, publicized for bids about a week after the purchase.

The wrought iron railings that encircled the birdcage lantern room were formed by John Box, a local blacksmith.

The Heckles eventually doubled the size of the hotel and the property attracted vacationers from as far away as New York City and Philadelphia.

Multiple upgrades to the entire property have been made, including complete renovations of the Lighthouse and all 3 cottages, a new boat launch ramp and new state-of-the-art floating docks.