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 port. Even though it no longer shines a light, it remains an important landmark.
Contents
History of the Old Michigan City Light
Building the Lighthouse
The Old Michigan City Light was built in 1858. It cost about $8,000 to construct. This new lighthouse replaced an older one made of brick and stone from 1837. That first lighthouse stood right at the edge of Lake Michigan.
The 1858 lighthouse was the second one built at this important spot. It served its purpose until 1904. In that year, its special light and lens were moved. They went to a newer lighthouse called the Michigan City East Light. This new light was placed at the end of a pier that had been made longer.
Lighthouse Keepers
The Old Michigan City Light building was updated in 1904. Many dedicated people worked here over the years. From 1837 to 1940, seven main Lighthouse keepers and fourteen assistant keepers served at this location. They made sure the light was always working to guide ships.
Special Lens Display
Today, you can see a special Fourth Order Fresnel lens on display at the lighthouse. A Fresnel lens is a type of lens that helps make a lighthouse's beam of light very strong and visible from far away. The Old Michigan City Light is one of about twelve lighthouses that have existed in Indiana.
Visiting the Lighthouse
The Old Michigan City Light is located inside Washington Park. It is open to visitors most days of the week. You can usually visit from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., but it is closed on Mondays and during the winter months. It's a great place to learn about maritime history.
See also
- Lighthouses in the United States
- National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act
