Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse MI
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Description: The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Mackinaw City, Michigan, at the northern tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. It was constructed in 1892 and is situated near the Straits of Mackinac, a narrow waterway that connects Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. The lighthouse was built to guide ships safely through the Straits of Mackinac and warn them of the surrounding dangers, including the treacherous submerged reef known as the "Graveyard of the Great Lakes." It served as an essential navigational aid for vessels traveling between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is a beautiful example of architectural design from the late 19th century. The tower rises 59 feet (18 meters) above the ground and features a distinct red brick exterior with a white lantern room. The original Fourth Order Fresnel lens was installed in the lantern room to produce a fixed white light visible up to 16 miles (26 kilometers) across the water. Over the years, the lighthouse underwent various changes, including the installation of a fog signal house to emit audible signals during foggy weather. However, with the advancement of modern navigation technology, the lighthouse was decommissioned in 1957. Today, the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse has been restored and preserved as a historical site and museum. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its rich maritime history, the lives of its keepers, and the importance of lighthouses in Great Lakes navigation. The museum exhibits artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that offer insights into the region's maritime heritage. In addition to the lighthouse, the site also offers picturesque views of the Straits of Mackinac and the iconic Mackinac Bridge, making it a popular destination for tourists interested in both history and natural beauty.