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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

NamePresque Isle Rear Range Lighthouse
CityPresque Isle
CountryUsa
Coordinates45.3378635, -83.4905235
Year of construction1870
EventsShipwrecks and rescues during the late 19th and early 20th centuries
Historic significanceVital aid to navigation on Lake Huron, crucial role in guiding mariners
StoriesCrucial role in guiding mariners, Iconic landmark in the region
Architectural styleOctagonal shape, brick and stone construction
ArchitectCaptain James Eads
Construction materialBrick and stone
Focal height110
Tower height180
Renovations1920s: replaced original lantern room with a more modern lens
Access descriptionScenic trail along the lake's shoreline
Accessibletrue
Landscape typeRocky coast
View descriptionStunning views of Lake Huron
Guided tourstrue
FacilitiesToilets, Café, Gift shop
Opening hoursSummer months: guided tours and stunning views
Automatedtrue