Name and Location

The Detroit River Light, officially known as the United States Coast Guard Station Detroit River Light, is a historic lighthouse located in Estral Beach, Michigan, USA. It stands on the southern shore of Lake Erie, approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) northeast of Toledo, Ohio.

Construction and History

Built in 1895, the Detroit River Light is an important example of late-19th-century lighthouse design. Initially constructed as a manual light station, it was automated in the early 20th century.

Architecture and Materials

The structure is a white conical tower with a black top on a hexagonal base, standing at a height of 14.9 meters (49 feet).

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse features an automatic fog signal that operates continuously, emitting a horn sound every 30 seconds. The light itself is characterized by a white flashing pattern (Fl) with a period of 6 seconds and a range of 10.4 kilometers (6.7 nautical miles). Today, it remains an active aid to navigation, serving as a beacon for mariners traversing the Detroit River.

Accessibility and Visiting

The lighthouse is situated near the southern shore of Lake Erie, within the Frenchtown Township area of Monroe County, Michigan. While visitors can observe the light from nearby vantage points, there is no public access to the structure itself.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands atop a bluff overlooking the Detroit River, offering breathtaking views of Lake Erie and the surrounding landscape. The area's natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Technical and Operational Details

For more information on the Detroit River Light, consult the following sources: Navcen: "Light Lists" (V7.2009) and Wikidata: "Q5266004".

Further Information