$106,466 awarded to preserve Michigan’s iconic lighthouses

Michigan lighthouses secured $106,000 in preservation grants as the state marks 25 years of protecting these iconic maritime beacons via license plate sales.

According to a press release from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan’s historic lighthouses are receiving a significant boost in preservation efforts, with over $106,000 in grants awarded to protect two iconic beacons that have guided mariners for generations. The funding comes at a milestone moment, marking the 25th anniversary of the Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program (MLAP).

Photo courtesy of abarndweller/Wikimedia Commons.

Two historic lighthouses receive preservation funding

The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has allocated $106,466 in grants to support preservation work at the Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse on Lake Michigan and the remote Gull Rock Lighthouse on Lake Superior. These grants, funded entirely through Michigan’s “Save Our Lights” specialty license plate sales, will help maintain these maritime landmarks for future generations.

The Charlevoix Historical Society will receive $60,000 to undertake crucial maintenance work at the Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse, constructed in 1948. The project includes interior and exterior cleaning and painting, with the organization providing an $80,500 match in funding.

“This important project will ensure the long-term stability and preservation of Charlevoix’s beloved South Pier Lighthouse, which plays a significant role in the City’s identity,” said Denise Fate, President Emerita and Lighthouse Chair.

Photo courtesy of Frank Thompson/Flickr.

Remote lighthouse preservation challenges

The Gull Rock Lighthouse, one of the Great Lakes’ most isolated beacons, will receive $46,466.67 for essential repairs. Built in 1867, this historic structure will undergo cedar roof maintenance, exterior painting, and door replacements. The lighthouse, which never had electricity, indoor plumbing, or phone service, represents a unique piece of Michigan’s maritime heritage.

David Younkman, Secretary for the Gull Rock Lightkeepers, emphasized the importance of the SHPO partnership: “We greatly value our partnership and the historic results that we have and will continue to achieve together. Protecting and restoring these lighthouses is a wonderful reminder of the long and important history America has had with our Great Lakes.”

Michigan’s lighthouse legacy

Michigan leads the nation with more than 120 lighthouses along its 3,200 miles of shoreline. Since 2000, MLAP has awarded over $2.9 million in matching funds to preserve these historic structures. The program has been instrumental in maintaining lighthouses as both active navigational aids and tourist destinations.

State Historic Preservation Officer Ryan Schumaker noted, “Because of the generosity of people who pay a little extra for a lighthouse license plate, we are able to award grants each year that help preserve these symbolic Michigan structures for the long term.”

Many of Michigan’s lighthouses welcome visitors during warm weather months, offering tours, museum exhibits, and even bed-and-breakfast accommodations. The next round of MLAP funding applications will be available in August 2025.

This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The ‘Gander staff.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.