South Manitou Island Lighthouse

The South Manitou Island Lighthouse is situated on Burdick Road, within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Location and Accessibility

• The island can be accessed by a ferry service from Leland, Michigan, approximately 16 miles west of the mainland.
• Guided tours on open-air vehicles are available to visitors, with most traffic being on foot.

History

The South Manitou Island Lighthouse has a rich history dating back to its construction in the late 19th century.

The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners traversing Lake Michigan.

Its exact construction year is not specified, but it is believed to have been erected during this time period.

Architecture and Construction

The South Manitou Island Lighthouse stands at a tower height of approximately 40 feet (12 meters) above the surrounding terrain.

The focal height, which is the distance from the base of the tower to the top of the lens, is around 100 feet (30 meters).

The lighthouse's architecture is characteristic of traditional lighthouses, with a cylindrical shape and a lantern room at the top.

The lighthouse was constructed using local materials, including limestone and other stone types.

Its design and construction reflect the maritime heritage of the region.

Light Characteristics

The South Manitou Island Lighthouse emits a white light with a character code of "F", indicating that it is a fixed aid to navigation.

The range of the light is not specified, but it is believed to be an important navigational aid for mariners in the area.

Current Status

The South Manitou Island Lighthouse is currently considered a historic landmark and is no longer an active aid to navigation.

It has been automated and is now operated by the National Park Service as part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Heritage Status

The lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, with reference number 83003782.

It is also designated as a "2" on the National Register's heritage website, indicating its significance as a historic and cultural resource.

Notable Historical Events

While specific details are not available, it is known that the South Manitou Island Lighthouse has played an important role in maritime history,

serving as a navigational aid for mariners traversing Lake Michigan.

The island itself has a rich natural and cultural heritage, with notable features such as the largest Northern white cedar tree in the world.

North Manitou Island

The larger North Manitou Island lies to the north of South Manitou Island and is part of the same island chain that extends north to the Straits of Mackinac.

The two islands are connected by a ferry service, allowing visitors to explore both islands and their unique natural and cultural features.

Florence Lake

On the southwestern corner of South Manitou Island lies Florence Lake,

the only inland lake on the island.

The lake is surrounded by trails and campsites, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

The largest Northern white cedar tree in the world can be found on the southwestern corner of South Manitou Island, with an estimated age of over 500 years.