Lighthouses

Shining a Light on Copper Harbor Perched on the rugged shores of Lake Superior, the Copper Harbor Front Range Light has played a vital role in guiding mariners safely through one of Michigan’s most treacherous harbor entrances. The original Copper Harbor Lighthouse illuminated the general harbor area. Unfortunately, it could not safely direct ships through the narrow rock-strewn channel. This need led to the construction of the range lights in 1869. This marked a new chapter in maritime safety on Lake Superior. The Origins of Copper Harbor Range Lights The first Copper Harbor Lighthouse began operation in the spring of… Read More »

A Key Michigan Lighthouse The DeTour Passage is a vital route to Lake Superior from Lake Huron. Sitting three miles south of DeTour Village, Michigan, the DeTour Reef Light marks this important shipping channel. Nearly all freighters traveling to and from Lake Superior pass through this passage, along with countless recreational boats carefully navigating the shallow DeTour Reef. Early History: From Point DeTour to Offshore Reef The first lighthouse at Point DeTour was built in 1847. It protected mariners from the hazards of the passage. By 1931, the lighthouse was moved offshore atop DeTour Reef on a crib foundation. Constructed… Read More »

A Sentinel on Lake Superior’s Shipwreck Coast If you’ve ever driven along Lake Superior’s stunning shoreline near Grand Marais, you’ve probably noticed the iconic white tower of Au Sable Light standing guard over the lake. The light is part of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This lighthouse has a fascinating history tied to one of the most treacherous stretches of water in the Great Lakes. From shipwrecks to foggy storms, the Au Sable Light Station has been a beacon for sailors since 1874. Before 1910, this lighthouse was known as Big Sable Light. Do not confuse it with Big Sable… Read More »