New Buffalo Lighthouse
New Buffalo Beach, 200 Marquette Dr, New Buffalo, MI 49117, USA
Name and Location
The New Buffalo Lighthouse is located on New Buffalo Beach in Michigan, USA, standing at 301 Marquette Drive in the heart of New Buffalo.
Construction and History
The New Buffalo Lighthouse was constructed in 1873 to serve as a vital aid to navigation for ships traversing Lake Michigan. Designed by architect James H. Harrison, the lighthouse is an excellent example of Victorian-era architecture, featuring a distinctive red-brick exterior and a gleaming white tower.
Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse stands at a height of 75 feet (23 meters) with a focal plane height of 61 feet (19 meters). Its tower was originally painted with a red-and-white stripe pattern, which has since been replaced by a uniform red color. The structure is constructed from local limestone and features an impressive spiral staircase leading to the lantern room.
Light and Navigation
The lighthouse's light characteristic is a fixed white light, visible for 16 miles (25 kilometers) out to sea. Its range has been enhanced over the years with the installation of modern lighting technology.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors are welcome to explore the lighthouse's grounds and take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan. The site offers limited parking and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Notable Views and Landscape
The New Buffalo Lighthouse is situated on a scenic beach, surrounded by beautiful dunes and forests. This natural setting provides a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of the Great Lakes.
Anecdotes and Folklore
According to local legend, the New Buffalo Lighthouse is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former keeper. While this claim cannot be verified, it adds to the site's mystique and allure.
Technical and Operational Details
In 1925, the lighthouse was automated, replacing the need for human keepers. Today, the New Buffalo Lighthouse is still operational, serving as a vital navigation aid for mariners.
Further Information
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Buffalo_Light">Wikipedia: New Buffalo Light
- https://www.uscg.mil/history/structures/Lighthouses/MI-New-Buffalo-Light.asp">USCG: New Buffalo Light
Details
| Name | New Buffalo Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| City | New Buffalo |
| Country | Usa |
| Coordinates | 41.8012264, -86.7483607 |
| Year of construction | 1873 |
| Events | annual New Buffalo Lighthouse Festival |
| Stories | local legend about a former keeper's ghost |
| Architectural style | Victorian-era architecture |
| Architect | James H. Harrison |
| Construction material | "local limestone" |
| Focal height | 61 |
| Tower height | 75 |
| Access description | Visitors are welcome to explore the lighthouse's grounds and take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan. The site offers limited parking and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. |
| Accessible | true |
| Landscape type | dunes |
| View description | beautiful dunes and forests |
| Facilities | limited parking, picnic areas |
| Light characteristic | "fixed white light" |
| Light range | 16 |
| Automated | true |