Name and Location

The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is located at 526 N Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701, USA.

Construction and History

Built in 1892, the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse has guided mariners across the Straits of Mackinac for over a century. It was constructed to ensure safe navigation on the Great Lakes.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse was designed by architect Orlando Rummler and built using local limestone and sandstone. The tower stands at an impressive 161 feet (49 meters) tall, with a focal height of 153 feet (47 meters) above sea level.

Light and Navigation

The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse was equipped with a fixed white light that could be seen from 19 miles (30 kilometers) away. In addition to the primary light source, the lighthouse also featured a fog signal that consisted of a series of blasts every 10 seconds, designed to alert ships of their proximity to the shoreline.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse via Highway 23, which runs through the nearby Mackinaw City. The lighthouse is open to the public during the summer months, offering guided tours and stunning views of the surrounding waters.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Straits of Mackinac, making it a popular tourist attraction.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Technical and Operational Details

In 1989, the lighthouse was automated, replacing the need for human keepers.

Further Information

The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and is considered one of the most significant landmarks in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.