Located at 4301 Niagara Parkway, the Lighthouse Restaurant and Pub has a history that dates as far back as the 1800s, when a small village on the shores of the Niagara River was known as Black Creek.
Originally used as a lumber mill, the Pub played a key role in the underground railroad, housing many black slaves that were seeking freedom up north. In its 200 years of existence, this locations was also used as an ice cream parlor, an inn and most recently the Pub that exists today.
It is quite normal to assume that a Pub would have a history of violence, bar fights and beer brawls, but this particular location has been overwhelmed in tragedy. The area was riddled in violence during the war of 1812, most notably the battle of Chippawa, which occurred just down the river no more than a kilometer away. But the deep tragedy lies in a terrible accident that saw the drowning of two young children just across the road somewhere in the late 1990s.
With such a history, stricken with war, violence and tragedy, it is no wonder why this Pub is considered one of the creepiest Pubs in the city of Niagara. Many believe that the Pub’s history of violence is what has contributed to the many reports of ghosts and phantom like activity. May ye be forewarned, that when sipping a pint in this Pub, you may experience more than you bargained for.
Members of the restaurant’s staff have continuously reported the same apparition, an elderly man, fully clothed and carrying a musket either in the basement or on the bridge outside. Cloaked in his full military uniform, a soldier from the war has been seen on the main floor, simply standing in the corner. A barmaid, appearing to be from the 19th century, has been spotted on the 2nd floor, a section of the house where the lights have been known to mysteriously fade until near darkness. According to the legend, young lovers hanging out on the second floor are often courted and watched by resident ghosts.
The last reported incident, which may have been expected given the drowning accident occurring nearby, involves two children, whose presence is often felt by the staff and guests.
by: Chase Kell
