Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse

The Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the shores of Lake Superior in Ontonagon Township, Michigan, United States.

History

• The lighthouse was built in 1859 and has been guiding mariners through the treacherous waters of Lake Superior ever since. Its strategic location at the southern end of the Keweenaw Peninsula made it an essential aid to navigation for ships traversing the lake.

Architecture

The tower stands at a height of 42 feet (13 meters) above the waterline, with a total structure height of 55 feet (16.7 meters). The focal height is 95 feet (29 meters), providing a powerful beam of light that can be seen for up to 20 miles out to sea.

The lighthouse was designed by architect John B. Thomas and constructed using local stone and brick materials, with a distinctive square tower shape characteristic of many early 19th-century lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

The Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse features a rotating light that projects a red beam, visible from up to 20 miles out to sea. The light is powered by an electric generator and operates automatically, using a complex system of optics and mirrors to focus the light onto the surrounding waters.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains in active service, although it has been automated since the 1970s. Visitors can still access the tower and learn about its rich history through guided tours.

Location and Accessibility

The Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse is located on Snowmobile Rd Logging, Ontonagon Township, Michigan, USA. The lighthouse is accessible via a short walk from the parking area, which is situated near the nearby logging road.

Heritage Status

The Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse has been recognized as an important part of American maritime history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Notable Historical Events

• In 1870, the lighthouse was upgraded with a new Fresnel lens, which significantly improved its light characteristics. In the early 20th century, the lighthouse played a crucial role in the rescue efforts following the sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald in 1975.