Name and Location

The Fort Gratiot Light is a historic lighthouse located in Port Huron, Michigan, USA. Standing at 26.2 meters (86 feet) tall, it has been guiding mariners through the St. Clair River for over two centuries.

Construction and History

Built in 1825, the Fort Gratiot Light was constructed to serve as a beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters of Lake Huron's southern shore. Initially designed by architect James W. Briggs, the lighthouse was intended to provide a reliable and conspicuous aid to navigation. Its original light source was an oil-burning lamp, which was later replaced with electric illumination in 1922.

Architecture and Materials

The Fort Gratiot Light is a white conical brick tower with a distinctive shape. The structure's foundation is built on a solid base of limestone, providing stability against the elements. The lighthouse's exterior walls are constructed from high-quality glazed brick, while its interior features a spiral staircase connecting the various levels.

Light and Navigation

The Fort Gratiot Light emits a flashing green light every 6 seconds, with a range of approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles). This unique light pattern serves as a visual warning to mariners of potential hazards in the area. The lighthouse was automated in 1913, replacing manual keepers with an electric signal system.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Fort Gratiot Light through St. Clair County Parks. The nearby Port Huron Museum offers exhibits on local history and maritime culture, while the Black River Recreation Trail provides scenic walking and biking paths along the riverbank.

Notable Views and Landscape

There is no information available for this section.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No anecdotes or folklore are recorded for the Fort Gratiot Light.

Technical and Operational Details

In 1913, the U.S. Coast Guard automated the lighthouse's operation, replacing manual keepers with an electric signal system. Today, the Fort Gratiot Light remains an important aid to navigation, although it is no longer manned by a human keeper.

Further Information

• * National Register of Historic Places: #76001975
• * Wikipedia: en:Fort Gratiot Light
• * Wikidata: Q5471242