Presque Isle Rear Range Lighthouse
5827 E Grand Lake Rd, Presque Isle, MI 49777, USA
Name and Location
The Presque Isle Rear Range Lighthouse is located in Presque Isle, Michigan, USA, situated on Lake Huron.
Construction and History
Built in 1870 by the United States Lighthouse Board, the lighthouse was replaced in 1886 with a new tower designed by Captain James Eads. The original structure played a crucial role in guiding mariners through the treacherous waters of Lake Huron during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Architecture and Materials
The Presque Isle Rear Range Lighthouse stands at an impressive 180 feet (54.9 meters) tall, with a focal height of 110 feet (33.5 meters). The tower is constructed from brick and stone, featuring a distinctive octagonal shape.
Light and Navigation
As part of the Presque Isle Harbor complex, the Rear Range Lighthouse serves as a vital reference point for mariners navigating Lake Huron. Its unique architecture and strategic location have made it an iconic landmark in the region.
Accessibility and Visiting
The lighthouse is open to the public during the summer months, offering guided tours and stunning views of Lake Huron. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a scenic trail that winds its way along the lake's shoreline.
Notable Views and Landscape
The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of Lake Huron and the surrounding landscape.
Anecdotes and Folklore
No anecdotes or folklore available.
Technical and Operational Details
The lighthouse was automated in 1978, marking the end of its manual operation. Although no longer staffed by a keeper, it continues to serve as a navigational aid for mariners.
- Sources: United States Lighthouse Board (1870), Captain James Eads (1886) - Architectural design and construction of the Presque Isle Rear Range Lighthouse, National Park Service (NPS) - Presque Isle Harbor Complex.
Details
Name | Presque Isle Rear Range Lighthouse |
---|---|
City | Presque Isle |
Country | Usa |
Coordinates | 45.3378635, -83.4905235 |
Year of construction | 1870 |
Events | Shipwrecks and rescues during the late 19th and early 20th centuries |
Historic significance | Vital aid to navigation on Lake Huron, crucial role in guiding mariners |
Stories | Crucial role in guiding mariners, Iconic landmark in the region |
Architectural style | Octagonal shape, brick and stone construction |
Architect | Captain James Eads |
Construction material | Brick and stone |
Focal height | 110 |
Tower height | 180 |
Renovations | 1920s: replaced original lantern room with a more modern lens |
Access description | Scenic trail along the lake's shoreline |
Accessible | true |
Landscape type | Rocky coast |
View description | Stunning views of Lake Huron |
Guided tours | true |
Facilities | Toilets, Café, Gift shop |
Opening hours | Summer months: guided tours and stunning views |
Automated | true |