Grand Island North Light facts for kids
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 Grand Island North Light Station
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Munising, Michigan |
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| Coordinates | 46°33′32″N 86°41′28″W / 46.55889°N 86.69111°W |
| Year first constructed | 1867 |
| Year first lit | 1867 |
| Automated | 1941 |
| Deactivated | 1961 |
| Construction | brick |
| Tower shape | square |
| Height | 205 feet (62 m) focal plane |
| Original lens | Fourth-order Fresnel lens |
The Grand Island North Light Station, also known as the Old North Light, is a historic lighthouse. It stands on the northern tip of Grand Island, close to Munising, Michigan. This important landmark was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
Contents
History of the Grand Island North Light
Building the First Lighthouse
In 1855, the Soo Locks were set to open. This meant many more ships would travel on Lake Superior. To help guide these ships, the government decided in 1853 to fund a new lighthouse. They chose a spot on the north end of Grand Island.
The lighthouse was built on top of a 175-foot cliff. Construction started in 1856. The first light began working that same year. It used a special "fourth-order Fresnel lens" to make its light bright and strong.
Problems with the First Lighthouse
Sadly, the first lighthouse was not built very well. The materials used were poor quality. Because of this, the building quickly fell apart. By 1865, it was in "wretched condition," meaning it was in terrible shape.
It was clear a new lighthouse was needed. So, in 1866, the government provided more money for a replacement.
Building the Second Lighthouse
In 1867, a brand new Grand Island North Light Station was built. This was even before the town of Munising existed. It was also before Alger County, where it is located, was formed.
The new lighthouse was made of strong brick. It followed standard plans from the U.S. Lighthouse Establishment. The special Fresnel lens from the old tower was moved to the new one. The light began working again in 1867.
Life at the Lighthouse and Automation
A lighthouse keeper and an assistant lived and worked at the station. They made sure the light was always shining. Over the years, only small changes were made to the boathouse and its stairs.
In 1941, the lighthouse became automated. This meant machines took over the job of lighting the lamp. The keepers were no longer needed, and the station was closed up. In 1961, a new, smaller light was put on a pole nearby. The old lighthouse was then officially retired, and its Fresnel lens was removed.
The Lighthouse Today
After being retired, the lighthouse was sold to a person named Loren Graham. He worked to restore the lighthouse and its buildings between 1972 and 1973. Today, the lighthouse and its other buildings are used as a private summer home.
What the Grand Island North Light Looks Like
The Grand Island North Light Station is a two-story building. It is made of brick and has a rectangular shape. A tall, three-story light tower is attached to the main building. This tower is about 40 feet tall. There is also a one-story kitchen added to the station.
The building has a roof covered with tin. The outside of the lighthouse is painted in its original colors: yellow, white, and black. It looks much like it did when it was first built. The tower used to hold the special fourth-order Fresnel lens.
There are four other buildings on the property. These include a tool shed, a shed for storing fuel, and an outhouse. All of these are made of brick. There is also a wooden well-house.
