Grand Island East Channel Light facts for kids
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| Grand Island East Channel light in 2009 | |
 Grand Island East Channel Light
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Grand Island, Alger County, Michigan |
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| Coordinates | 46°27.01′N 86°37.345′W / 46.45017°N 86.622417°W |
| Year first lit | 1868 |
| Deactivated | 1908 |
| Foundation | Brick |
| Construction | Wood frame |
| Tower shape | square tower, decagonal lantern, affixed to "schoolhouse" style keeper's residence. |
| Markings / pattern | White |
| Height | 45 feet (14 m) |
| Original lens | Oil-fired steamer Fifth order Fresnel |
| Current lens | none |
| Range | 11.51 nautical miles; 21.32 kilometres (13.25 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fixed white |
| ARLHS number | USA-328 |
The Grand Island East Channel Light is an old lighthouse near Munising, Michigan. It was built to guide boats from Lake Superior through a narrow channel. This channel is east of Grand Island and leads into Munising Harbor. The lighthouse first started working in 1868.
The lighthouse was made of wood. It became hard to see from Lake Superior over time. Also, keeping the light working was very difficult. Because of these problems, new lights called the Munising Range Lights were built. These new lights included the Munising Rear Range Light and the Munising Front Range Light. The Grand Island East Channel Light was then stopped from being used. This happened in either 1908 or 1913, as different records show.
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Saving the Lighthouse
After it was no longer used, the lighthouse was left alone for many years. It started to fall apart and was in danger of being washed away by water. This was due to erosion, which is when land slowly wears away.
Community Efforts to Restore It
To save this important building, a group called the Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse Rescue Committee was formed. People worked together to raise money. They also started to fix up the lighthouse. The goal was to make it look "rustic" or old, not perfectly new. This was because the old look was thought to be more beautiful. It also attracted tourists and photographers.
Many people felt that losing this unique lighthouse would be a shame. They noted that thousands of tourists see it every year. Boat tours from Munising often stop there. The lighthouse is also featured on many items like t-shirts, mugs, and postcards. It is one of Michigan's most famous landmarks.
Building a Seawall
In the year 2000, 85 volunteers worked very hard for 30 days. They built most of a 300-foot-long seawall. This wall was built to protect the lighthouse from the water and erosion. By the end of 2000, the lighthouse was restored, and the seawall was finished.
National Recognition
The Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized as an important historical site in the United States. Its special number on the register is 80004835.
How to See the Lighthouse
The best way to see the Grand Island East Channel Light is by taking a boat tour.
Boat Tours
Several boat tours leave from Munising, Michigan. These include the Shipwreck Tour and the Pictured Rocks tour. Grand Island Cruises also offers trips. All these tours pass by the lighthouse and usually pause so people can take pictures.
Kayaking Adventures
You can also see the lighthouse by taking a sea kayak tour around Grand Island. These tours are available daily from late May until October 10. Kayaking is a popular way to explore the island and get a close view of the lighthouse.
Safety Tips for Kayaking
Kayaking in this area is a serious trip. The water can be dangerous and very cold. It is important to be prepared and have the right equipment. Always dress for the water temperature, not just the air temperature. Guides are available to help you. The best place to start your kayak trip is from the harbor in Munising.
Private Property Notice
While you can see the lighthouse from the water, please know that it is privately owned. The lighthouse building and the land around it are not open to the public.
