Detroit River Light

The Detroit River Light, also known as Bar Point Shoal Light, is a historic lighthouse located on an artificial island in Lake Erie, south of the mouth of the Detroit River.

History

• The first lightship was established at this location in 1875. However, it was not until 1885 that the current sparkplug lighthouse was built to replace the original lightship.

Architecture and Construction

The Detroit River Light is a white conical tower with a black top on a hexagonal base. The tower stands at a height of approximately 16.7 meters (55 feet) above sea level, while its focal height reaches up to 20.3 meters (66.6 feet). The lighthouse features a 4th order Fresnel lens, which is currently on loan to the Michigan Maritime Museum.

Light Characteristics

The Detroit River Light emits a white light with a range of approximately 10.4 nautical miles (19.3 kilometers) and a period of 6 seconds. The light is exhibited at night and operates continuously using an automatic fog signal system, which includes a horn that sounds every 30 seconds.

Current Status

The Detroit River Light is currently an automated lighthouse, meaning it no longer requires manual operation. It remains an active aid to navigation, guiding mariners through the Detroit River.

Location and Accessibility

The Detroit River Light is situated on an artificial island in Lake Erie, approximately 1.75 nautical miles (3.24 kilometers) from land and about 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) from the Ambassador Bridge in the Detroit River. The lighthouse can be accessed by boat or via a nearby dock.

Heritage Status

The Detroit River Light is listed as a historic landmark, reflecting its importance in maritime navigation and its contribution to the region's rich history.

Notable Historical Events

While no specific notable historical events are documented for the Detroit River Light, it has played an important role in guiding mariners through the Detroit River since its construction in 1885.