Wawatam Lighthouse MI
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Description: The Wawatam Lighthouse, also known as the St. Ignace Lighthouse, is a historic lighthouse located in St. Ignace, Michigan. It sits near the Straits of Mackinac, a narrow waterway that connects Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. The lighthouse was constructed in 1892 to guide ships safely through the Straits of Mackinac and prevent maritime accidents. It is a square, steel-plated tower that stands at a height of 59 feet (18 meters) and is painted white with a red roof, creating a distinctive appearance. Originally, the Wawatam Lighthouse was equipped with a Fourth Order Fresnel lens, which produced a fixed white light visible for up to 15 miles (24 kilometers). However, the lens was removed in the 1950s, and the lighthouse was automated. Today, an electric light illuminates the tower to serve as a navigational aid for ships passing through the area. In addition to its practical role as a navigational aid, the Wawatam Lighthouse is also a significant historical landmark in the St. Ignace area. It stands as a symbol of the region's maritime heritage and the importance of lighthouses in guiding ships along the Great Lakes. Visitors to St. Ignace can view the Wawatam Lighthouse from various vantage points around the area, and some areas may offer guided tours or interpretive exhibits to learn more about the lighthouse's history and importance to the region. The lighthouse's location near the Straits of Mackinac also provides picturesque views of the water and the iconic Mackinac Bridge in the distance, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.