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Rock Harbor Lighthouse

Rock Harbor Lighthouse, Houghton Township, MI, USA

Name and Location

The Rock Harbor Lighthouse stands tall in Houghton Township, Michigan, United States, situated on the rocky shores of Lake Superior.

2. Construction and History

The Rock Harbor Lighthouse was built in 1855 to serve as a beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters of Lake Superior during the maritime boom of the 19th century. Its proximity to the Canadian border made it an essential aid to navigation for international trade and commerce.

3. Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is an excellent example of mid-19th-century American architectural style, featuring a distinctive red-brick exterior and a white-painted lantern room. The tower's height reaches 15 meters (49 feet) above the water level, making it a prominent landmark in the area.

4. Light and Navigation

The Rock Harbor Lighthouse features a Fl(3)W.15s light characteristic, emitting three flashes of white light every 15 seconds. This distinctive signal pattern has helped mariners identify the lighthouse since its inception.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Today, the Rock Harbor Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a scenic drive along Edisen Fishery Trail or by boat. The structure is open for visitors who can explore its exhibits, learn about its rich history, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Superior.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

Visitors to the Rock Harbor Lighthouse are treated to stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The managing authority responsible for the Rock Harbor Lighthouse is not specified in the provided data. For information on access and tours, please consult local authorities or historical societies.

9. Further Information

Details

NameRock Harbor Lighthouse
City
CountryUnited States
Coordinates48.089754, -88.5793477
Year of construction1855
Eventsshipwrecks or rescues
Historic significanceaid to navigation for international trade and commerce
Storiesanecdotes, myths, or legends related to the lighthouse
Architectural stylemid-19th-century American
Construction material"brick"
Tower height15
Access descriptionvia a scenic drive along Edisen Fishery Trail or by boat
Accessibletrue
View descriptionbreathtaking views of Lake Superior
Guided toursfalse
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
AIS Radarfalse
Light characteristic"Fl(3)W.15s"
Automatedtrue