|
Lighthouses along the shores of Lake Michigan have existed since 1832.The first lighthouse was located along the southern shore at St. Joseph, Michigan.Eventually two pier lights replaced it and are still in use today.
In early times the lighthouses were the homes of the keepers and their families. They often lived in lonely and dangerous conditions.In the 1920's the job of lightkeeper began to be replaced.In 1939 the U. S. Coast Guard took over the Lighthouse Services and the lighthouses were either abandoned or automated one at a time until 1983 when the last Michigan keeper left his light.
Today many lights have been saved or restored by private citizens and local historical societies.
There are 116 lighthouses along the shores of Lake Michigan today, sixty-two of which are active. They sit along the shorelines of four states:Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin.
These are not all what might be considered "typical" lighthouses. Many of them are actually a light or "beacon" at the end of a pier or long walkway. Others are "crib" lights which sit out in the water away from the beach or pier.
Walking to a lighthouse at the end of a pier or walkway can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience when the weather is calm. But these same structures can be very dangerous during times of high waves or storms. Use caution when visiting those types of lights.
Another thing to consider is that some of the lighthouses are on private property. You should respect the owners and only view these lighthouses from a distance or not at all.
There are nine "real" lighthouses actually accessible and open to the public. They are as follows:
Delta County Historical Society Lighthouse
18 Water Plant Road
Escanaba, MI 49829
Peninsula Point Lighthouse
Hiawatha National Forest
8181 US2
Rapid River, MI 49878
Seul Choix Lighthouse & Museum
Seul Choix Point
Gulliver, MI 49840
906-283-3169
Beaver Island Harbor Lighthouse
St. James, MI 49782
Open for tours once a year. Call for schedule.
Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum
Leelanau Point
Northport, MI 49670
South Manitou Island Lighthouse
South Manitou Island
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
P.O. Box 227
Empire, MI 49630
Big Sable Point Lighthouse
M116
Ludington, MI 49431
White River Light Station
6199 Murray Road
Whitehall, MI 49461
These addresses were obtained through "Michigan Tours and Sites" online. If you desire to visit any of these lighthouses it would be best to call ahead and find out the days and times that they are accessible.
Through the West Michigan Tourist Association you may obtain a booklet called "Lake Michigan Circle Tour & Lighthouse Guide" free of charge. Vacation adventurers might enjoy this 1100 mile tour along the shores of Lake Michigan which takes them through four states.
A personal note about one of my favorite lighthouses. It is located at South Haven, Michigan and is a favorite for photographers because of its beautiful sunset scenes.
| 
