Cheboygan River Front Range Light

The Cheboygan River Front Range Light is situated on Water Street 606 in Cheboygan, Michigan, United States.

Location and Accessibility

• The Cheboygan River Front Range Light was constructed in 1859 to serve as a vital aid to navigation for mariners traversing the Cheboygan River.
• The lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding vessels safely through the treacherous waters of Lake Huron and the Straits of Mackinac.

History

The Cheboygan River Front Range Light was constructed in 1859 to serve as a vital aid to navigation for mariners traversing the Cheboygan River. The lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding vessels safely through the treacherous waters of Lake Huron and the Straits of Mackinac.

Architecture

The tower stands at a height of approximately 30 feet (9 meters) above the water level, while its focal height reaches around 40 feet (12 meters). The lighthouse is constructed from cast iron and features a distinctive octagonal shape. Its architectural design is characteristic of mid-19th-century American lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

The Cheboygan River Front Range Light emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers). The light's pattern is a steady, unchanging beam that serves as a reliable guide for mariners navigating the surrounding waters.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its modernization in the late 20th century. Today, the Cheboygan River Front Range Light continues to serve as a vital navigational aid, ensuring safe passage for vessels through the Cheboygan River and surrounding waters.

Heritage Status

The Cheboygan River Front Range Light is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its significance as an important part of American maritime history. The lighthouse has also been designated as a Michigan State Historic Site, further solidifying its importance in the state's cultural heritage.

Notable Historical Events

The Cheboygan River Front Range Light played a significant role during World War II, serving as a vital aid to navigation for Allied forces transporting supplies and equipment through the Straits of Mackinac. The lighthouse also served as a beacon for mariners navigating the treacherous waters of Lake Huron during the Great Lakes Storms of 1913 and 1975.

Contact Information

For more information about the Cheboygan River Front Range Light, please contact the Great Lakes Lighthouse Association at info@gllka.org or +1-231-436-5580.