Point Iroquois Lighthouse. Photo © Jim Doty Jr.

Point Iroquois Lighthouse is on Lake Superior’s Whitefish Bay in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, not far from Sault Ste. Mare. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. There is no charge to climb the 65 foot tower or go through the 1950’s exhibit. Donations are welcomed.

“The Point Iroquois Light was first illuminated in 1857 and its Fourth Order Fresnel lens shone over one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world: the entrance to the St. Mary’s River and the Soo Locks. Point Iroquois became busier with each passing year, and the personnel and facilities required to run the station grew accordingly. In 1870 the house and tower were completely rebuilt, and in 1902, a two-story rectangular brick house was added to the residence to provide housing for the assistant keeper.” (From the web site linked in the next paragraph.)

The lighthouse is no longer active and the lens has been removed from the tower.  The lighthouse is managed by the U.S. forest Service and it is part of the Hiawatha National Forest. “The museum and gift shop are open from May 15th through October 15. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily. Hours may vary, so call (906) 437-5272 for a current schedule.” More information about the lighthouse is here.