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Isle Royale Light

Isle Royale Light, Houghton Township, Keweenaw County, Michigan, United States

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Isle Royale Light (Houghton Township)
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Isle Royale Light

The Isle Royale Light was constructed in 1875 and has been an important aid to navigation on Lake Superior ever since its completion.

History

  • The lighthouse played a vital role in guiding mariners through the treacherous waters of the Straits of Mackinac, connecting Lake Michigan to Lake Huron.
  • The Isle Royale Light remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation has been automated over the years.

Architecture

The Isle Royale Light is a white octagonal tower with a dwelling attached, standing at a height of 23 meters (75 feet) above the lake's surface.

  • The lighthouse features a distinctive design, characteristic of the period in which it was built.
  • Its construction materials include stone and wood, typical of many lighthouses from this era.

Light Characteristics

The Isle Royale Light is equipped with a Fresnel lens, which focuses the light to create a beam that can be seen for up to 9 nautical miles (16.7 kilometers) out to sea.

  • The light's color is white, and it operates on a six-second flash period.

Current Status

The Isle Royale Light has been recognized for its historical significance, earning a listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1983.

  • It is also classified as a landmark of national importance by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Houghton Township, Keweenaw County, Michigan, United States, the Isle Royale Light is situated on Isle Royale, an island in Lake Superior.

  • The lighthouse can be accessed by boat or kayak, although visiting the site may require special permits and planning due to its remote location.

Heritage Status

While there are no specific events associated with the Isle Royale Light, it has played an important role in the maritime history of Lake Superior and the surrounding region.

  • The lighthouse's construction marked an important milestone in the development of navigation aids on the Great Lakes.

Notable Historical Events

The Isle Royale Light has been recognized for its historical significance, earning a listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1983.

  • It is also classified as a landmark of national importance by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Heritage Status

The Isle Royale Light has been recognized for its historical significance, earning a listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1983.

  • It is also classified as a landmark of national importance by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Notable Historical Events

The Isle Royale Light has been recognized for its historical significance, earning a listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1983.

  • It is also classified as a landmark of national importance by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Current Status

The Isle Royale Light remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation has been automated over the years.

  • It continues to serve as a vital reference point for mariners navigating the waters of Lake Superior.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Houghton Township, Keweenaw County, Michigan, United States, the Isle Royale Light is situated on Isle Royale, an island in Lake Superior.

  • The lighthouse can be accessed by boat or kayak, although visiting the site may require special permits and planning due to its remote location.

Heritage Status

The Isle Royale Light has been recognized for its historical significance, earning a listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1983.

  • It is also classified as a landmark of national importance by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Notable Historical Events

The Isle Royale Light has been recognized for its historical significance, earning a listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1983.

  • It is also classified as a landmark of national importance by the U.S. Coast Guard.

The Isle Royale Light was constructed in 1875 and has been an important aid to navigation on Lake Superior ever since its completion.

Details

NameIsle Royale Light
CityHoughton Township
CountryUnited States
Coordinates47.94785, -88.76127
Current useActive aid to navigation