Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse

The Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse is one of the oldest active lighthouses in Michigan, built in 1857.

History

• The current structure is a prominent example of mid-19th-century lighthouse design, featuring a square tower with a distinctive lantern room at the top. The tower stands at a height of 180 feet (54.9 meters) above sea level and has a focal height of approximately 200 feet (61 meters), making it an effective aid to navigation for vessels approaching the northeastern tip of the Thumb.

The Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse is equipped with a characteristic red light that can be seen from a distance of up to 20 nautical miles. The light's pattern is a fixed flash every 10 seconds, providing a reliable warning to mariners of the shallow coastline and rocky shoreline.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its restoration in recent years.

• The surrounding area now serves as a museum and interpretive center, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of the lighthouse and maritime life on Lake Huron.

The Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse is located at Gulick Drive, Huron Township, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Huron. The site is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with parking available nearby.

Location and Accessibility

• The lighthouse has been designated as a National Historic Landmark (NHL) and listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), recognizing its significance in American maritime history.

The Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse has played an important role in the region's maritime history, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners during World War II. The lighthouse was also used as a reference point for navigational charts and maps, helping to establish safe passage routes for vessels approaching the Thumb.

Notable Historical Events

For more information about the Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse, please visit its official website at [https://pointeauxbarqueslighthouse.org/](https://pointeauxbarqueslighthouse.org/).