Forty Mile Point Light

The Forty Mile Point Light was constructed in 1896 as part of an effort to provide lighthouse coverage along the western shore of Lake Huron, specifically between Mackinaw Point and the Saint Clair River.

History

• The light tower stands at 16 meters (52 feet) in height, with a focal height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet).
• The structure is composed primarily of stone and brick, with a distinctive architectural style that reflects its role as a navigational aid.
• The lighthouse has three levels, including the lantern room at the top.

Unlike many other Great Lakes lighthouses, this structure does not mark a significant harbor or river mouth but rather serves as a navigational aid for mariners sailing from one point to another.

Architecture

• The light is characterized by a rotating beam pattern, which provides a range of approximately 16 nautical miles (30 km) in all directions.
• This allows mariners to navigate safely through the area, even when other visual references are not available.

The Forty Mile Point Light remains an active aid to navigation, although it is now managed by the Presque Isle County and the 40 Mile Point Lighthouse Society.

Light Characteristics

• The lighthouse has been automated since its construction, with a modern electronic system replacing traditional optics.

The light is situated on US-23 North at the address 7323, in Rogers City, Michigan. Visitors can access the lighthouse via this location, which is open to the public during specified hours from June to October.

Heritage Status

• The Forty Mile Point Light has been recognized for its historical significance and is listed as a historic site.
• Its designation reflects the importance of this structure in the maritime history of the Great Lakes region.

While there are no specific notable events associated with the construction or operation of the light, it played an important role in the development of navigation on Lake Huron during its operational lifetime.

Notable Historical Events

• The light is situated on US-23 North at the address 7323, in Rogers City, Michigan. Visitors can access the lighthouse via this location, which is open to the public during specified hours from June to October.
• Its designation reflects the importance of this structure in the maritime history of the Great Lakes region.

Heritage Status

The Forty Mile Point Light has been recognized for its historical significance and is listed as a historic site. Its designation reflects the importance of this structure in the maritime history of the Great Lakes region.

Current Status

The Forty Mile Point Light remains an active aid to navigation, although it is now managed by the Presque Isle County and the 40 Mile Point Lighthouse Society. The lighthouse has been automated since its construction, with a modern electronic system replacing traditional optics.

Location and Accessibility

The light is situated on US-23 North at the address 7323, in Rogers City, Michigan. Visitors can access the lighthouse via this location, which is open to the public during specified hours from June to October.

Notable Historical Events

• While there are no specific notable events associated with the construction or operation of the light, it played an important role in the development of navigation on Lake Huron during its operational lifetime.