Logo

lighthouse-index

South Haven South Pierhead Light

CP26+HR, South Haven, MI 49090, USA

Name and Location

The South Haven South Pierhead Light is located in CP26+HR, South Haven, MI 49090, USA.

Construction and History

The South Haven South Pierhead Light was constructed in 1922 to guide vessels safely into the harbor at South Haven, Michigan. The lighthouse was built during a time of significant maritime activity in the region, with numerous ships transporting goods such as lumber, grain, and coal.

The light has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years, including the installation of an automatic fog signal in 1964.

Architecture and Materials

The South Haven South Pierhead Light is a red conical tower, standing at a height of 11 meters (36 feet) above sea level. The lighthouse's architecture is characterized by its striking red color and distinctive shape, making it easily visible to mariners from a distance.

The structure was designed to withstand the harsh lake weather conditions, with a robust foundation and sturdy construction materials.

Light and Navigation

The South Haven South Pierhead Light emits a Fl (3) W 15s light characteristic, which means that it flashes three times every 15 seconds. The light is colored red, with a range of 13 nautical miles (24 kilometers). This light pattern and color combination serves as a unique identifier for the lighthouse, allowing mariners to quickly recognize its location.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors are welcome to access the lighthouse, although there may be restrictions or guided tours available upon request. The closest airport is the South Haven Area Regional Airport (L43), with connections to major airports in Michigan and beyond.

Notable Views and Landscape

From the lighthouse's vantage point, visitors can enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan, with the surrounding landscape characterized by rolling hills, sandy beaches, and picturesque towns like South Haven.

Technical and Operational Details

The South Haven South Pierhead Light is currently automated, meaning that it operates without human intervention. The light is managed by the U.S. Coast Guard, which ensures its continued operation and maintenance.

Further Information

Details

NameSouth Haven South Pierhead Light
CitySouth Haven
CountryUsa
Coordinates42.4013768, -86.2879478
Year of construction1922
Architectural styleconical tower
Focal height11
Tower height11
Heritage statustrue
Renovationsinstallation of an automatic fog signal in 1964
Accessibletrue
Landscape typecoastal
View descriptionLake Michigan, rolling hills, sandy beaches, and picturesque towns like South Haven.
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Nearby attractionsLighthouse of Michigan, South Haven Area Regional Airport (L43)
Light characteristicFl (3) W 15s
Light range13
Automatedtrue