Name and Location

The Whitefish Point Lighthouse is located in Paradise, Michigan, United States, standing at an elevation of approximately 183 feet (56 meters) above sea level.

Construction and History

The Whitefish Point Lighthouse was constructed in 1861 to guide mariners through the treacherous waters of Lake Superior. The original tower stood at a height of 65 feet (20 meters), with a focal plane of 150 feet (46 meters). In 1899, the lighthouse was upgraded with a new lattice-style tower, measuring 91 feet (28 meters) in height, and a first-order Fresnel lens.

Architecture and Materials

The Whitefish Point Lighthouse is a remarkable example of mid-19th-century maritime architecture. The original tower's lattice design allowed for natural ventilation and provided structural support, while the brick-and-stone construction ensured durability. The lighthouse's distinctive shape has been described as "pyramidal" with a square base, tapering to an octagonal upper section.

Light and Navigation

The Whitefish Point Lighthouse was originally operated by the United States Lighthouse Service and later managed by the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society (GLSHS) in 1973. The lighthouse's automated Fresnel lens was installed in 1927, replacing manual operation.

Accessibility and Visiting

Today, the Whitefish Point Lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation, but it remains a popular tourist destination and a symbol of maritime heritage. Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds and adjacent museum through guided tours or self-guided exploration.

Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding area offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape.

Further Information

For more information, please visit the Wikipedia page for the Whitefish Point Light: <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whitefish_Point_Light>