Old Michigan City Light facts for kids
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| Location | Washington Park, Michigan City, Indiana |
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| Coordinates | 41°43′22″N 86°54′21″W / 41.72278°N 86.90583°W |
| Year first lit | 1858 |
| Deactivated | 1904 |
| Height | 40 ft (12 m) |
| Focal height | 60 feet (18 m) |
| Original lens | Fifth Order Fresnel |
The Old Michigan City Light is a historic lighthouse located in the harbor of Michigan City, Indiana. It once helped guide ships safely into the busy port. This old lighthouse is a special part of the city's history.
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Discover the Old Michigan City Lighthouse
Lighthouses are tall towers with bright lights. They help ships find their way and avoid dangerous areas. The Old Michigan City Light was built a long time ago. It served as an important guide for boats on Lake Michigan.
A Beacon from the Past
This lighthouse was built in 1858. It cost about $8,000 to construct. It replaced an even older lighthouse from 1837. That first lighthouse was made of brick and stone. The 1858 lighthouse was the second one at this spot.
In 1904, the light was moved to a new lighthouse. This new one was at the end of a longer pier. The Old Michigan City Light was then remodeled. It still stands today as a historic landmark.
Life as a Lighthouse Keeper
Being a lighthouse keeper was a very important job. Keepers lived at the lighthouse. They made sure the light was always burning brightly. This helped ships stay safe, especially at night or in bad weather.
From 1837 to 1940, many people worked here. Seven main lighthouse keepers served at this location. They also had fourteen assistant keepers. These dedicated people kept the lights shining for many years.
Inside the lighthouse, you can see a special lens. It is called a Fresnel lens. This type of lens was very advanced for its time. It helped make the light much brighter and easier to see from far away.
Visiting the Historic Lighthouse
The Old Michigan City Light is located in Washington Park. It is one of only a few lighthouses in Indiana. Today, it is open to visitors. You can explore this historic building and learn about its past.
The lighthouse is open every day except Mondays. You can visit from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. However, it is closed during the winter months. It's a great place to learn about maritime history.
