Grand Haven Pier and Lighthouse

This inner lighthouse, built in 1905, is typical in style to many of the lighthouses we’re familiar with. The round tower looks elegant in its vivid red with lights stringing out on either side. As we follow the lights towards the lake we come to the breakwater’s second lighthouse. This outer light, built in 1875, has its own charm and resembles a small barn in appearance. At one time the outer light was equipped with a fog horn which could warn ships in harm’s way when the light could not be seen. The west side of the light sports a structure similar to the bow of a ship. This protects the light from the heavy swells so common on Lake Michigan.

The U.S. Coast Guard determined in 2009 that it would no longer maintain the lights, and they are now owned by the City of Grand Haven. However, they are maintained by the Grand Haven Lighthouse Conservancy, a group dedicated to “keeping the lights on”.