Name and Location

The Grand Marais Harbor of Refuge Outer Light is located in Grand Marais, Michigan, United States, with coordinates of latitude 46.6837593 and longitude -85.9719365. Locals affectionately refer to it as the "Grand Marais Lighthouse".

Construction and History

The construction of the lighthouse began in 1874 and was completed in 1875, making it a representative example of mid-19th-century American architecture.

Architecture and Materials

The design of the Grand Marais Harbor of Refuge Outer Light is attributed to the American Lighthouse Company. The structure features a traditional lighthouse style, with a cylindrical tower supporting a lantern room. The lighthouse was built using local limestone and sandstone, with a metal framework providing support for the lantern room.

Light and Navigation

The original light exhibited a flash characteristic of Fl(3)W.15s, with a range of approximately 14 nautical miles (25.9 kilometers). In 1964, the lighthouse was automated, marking the end of an era in which human keepers played a crucial role in maintaining the light.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can explore the museum and enjoy stunning views of Lake Superior. Accessible via Highway 28, the lighthouse is approximately 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) west of downtown Grand Marais.

Notable Views and Landscape

From its vantage point on the lake shore, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior's rugged coastline, surrounding islands, and the distant horizon. The lighthouse stands proudly in a scenic setting, surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Superior's shoreline, with dense forests and rocky cliffs nearby.

Anecdotes and Folklore

None available.

Technical and Operational Details

Standing at 45 feet (13.7 meters) tall, the lighthouse's focal height is approximately 35 feet (10.6 meters) above the waterline. The Grand Marais Harbor of Refuge Outer Light is currently under the care and management of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Further Information

The Grand Marais Harbor of Refuge Outer Light has been featured in numerous publications and online platforms, including Wikipedia and the National Register of Historic Places.