CELEBRATING 10 YEARS!

Buy us a beer!

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS!

Buy us a beer!

Inside the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse

by | Sep 5, 2017 | History | 0 comments

During our romp around Michigan this summer, we explored the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse in Mackinaw City.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-5

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse

The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is also known as the “Castle of the Straits”. It marks the junction of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. From 1892 until 1957, the lighthouse helped ships navigate the perilous waters of the Straits of Mackinac.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-2

The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse has two exhibits you shouldn’t miss, the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum and the Keepers’ Quarters. You can save a little money and greatly expand your value by purchasing a combo ticket. This gives you access to the lighthouse as well as Colonial Michilimackinac.
These parks are all part of the Mackinac State Historic Parks and are within easy walking distance of each other.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-26

Inside the Keeper’s Quarters

The living area of the Keeper’s Quarters has been restored to the timeframe of 1910. Each room gives you a glimpse into past. At first glance, it looks like a pretty big living space. Until you factor in the fact that the lighthouse keeper’s family, and his assistants all had to live in this small house. We are hoping they were all small folks as this would be tight quarters with a house full of people.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-12
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-15

Be sure to read the panels on the walls which tell the stories of the lighthouse keepers and the lighthouse. It was quite interesting to learn that the first lighthouse keeper George Marshall (no relation to Chuck) was in the U.S. cavalry during the Civil War and spent nearly a year in a Confederate prison.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-10

Exploring The Tower

The tour of the Old Mackinac Point lighthouse includes a climb up into the tower. The lighthouse requires that you have good sturdy shoes (no flip flops) and keep your hands free. You will understand why once you start to negotiate the tight winding staircase to the top of the tower. Be sure to keep your phone and sunglasses secure as you’ll want them at the top. The views from the top of the tower are excellent, especially on a sunny day.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-19
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-17
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-16

Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum

Located behind the lighthouse and across from the small audio visual barn is the Straits of Mackinac shipwreck museum. Inside you will find a treasure trove of original artifacts from some of the tragic shipwrecks littering the Straits of Mackinac. Spend some time learning about the such wrecks as the Cedarville and Eber Ward.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-23
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse-24

Thank You for Your Support

Life in Michigan is fueled by friends and followers like you. We are looking to make improvements to Life in Michigan and would be honored by your patronage. If you have the means, consider showing your support on our Patreon Page.

Share the News

If you enjoyed our visit inside the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, then share it on your favorite social media venue or send it as a link to your friends and family. This is good for everyone!

Stay Connected

We’d really love it if you’d like our Facebook page. Subscribe to our newsletter and get our posts delivered to your email box. You can also find us on Instagram. Cheers

Follow LifeinMichigan

Life in Michigan Archives

Recommended Reading

Pin It on Pinterest