Dennis Lyall (American, B. 1946) "Marblehead, Lake Erie Lighthouse" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 32c Marblehead Lighthouse stamp issued June 17, 1995. Located on the northeastern tip of Ohio's Marblehead Peninsula is the oldest continuously-operating light on the Great Lakes. Marblehead Lighthouse -- known as Sandusky Bay Lighthouse until 1870 -- was erected in 1812 on the northern border of Sandusky Bay. It is located in a region called the Lake Erie Firelands, which was so named for the Connecticut citizens who were burned off their land during the American Revolution. In compensation for their losses they were given a portion of the 500,000-acre tract dubbed the Firelands that now spans four counties. One reason the lighthouse was built at this site is because the area is often subjected to fierce winds accompanied by "nor'easters" -- powerful storms that churn Lake Erie's waters from Buffalo, New York, to Marblehead. In fact, it's not unusual for tremendous waves to crash up against this limestone beacon, sending sprays to the top of its 65-foot tower. For more than half a century -- before a separate rescue station was established in a nearby location -- Marblehead housed crews that consistently risked their lives to save those whose crafts had been battered by the menacing storms. Over the years the light has undergone several renovations. Between 1897 and 1903, the tower was extended by 15 feet to its present height of 65 feet, and in 1923 it was first powered by electricity. Today, Marblehead Lighthouse continues to guide ships in and out of Sandusky Bay. Image Size: 13.25 x 11.5 in. Overall Size: 16.25 x 14 in. Unframed. (B15037)