Grand Marais Lighthouse

The Grand Marais Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the outer end of a breakwater on the shore of Lake Superior in the city of Grand Marais, Cook County, Minnesota, United States.

History

• The tower was first lit in 1922 and has been operational ever since. The original keeper's house on shore is now operated as the main museum of the Cook County Historical Society, featuring exhibits on area history, industry, and culture.

Architecture

The lighthouse stands at a height of 15 meters (49 feet) above the lake's surface, with a focal height of approximately 30 meters (98 feet). The tower is constructed from masonry materials, typical of many early 20th-century lighthouses. Its design and construction are attributed to an unknown architect.

Light Characteristics

• The Grand Marais Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 12 nautical miles. The light's period is 2.5 minutes, and it operates on a horn fog signal every 30 seconds. The light's category is designated as "front or rear," indicating its location at the front of the breakwater.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains operational under the management of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Location and Accessibility

The Grand Marais Lighthouse is situated on the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, in the town of Grand Marais, Cook County, Minnesota. The location provides easy access to the surrounding area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Heritage Status

The lighthouse has been designated as a significant historical landmark by the state of Minnesota, with its heritage status reported at 4 on the National Register of Historic Places eligibility scale.

Notable Historical Events

No notable historical events are documented for this lighthouse.