Forty Mile Point Lighthouse – A Historic Beacon on Lake Huron

Nestled along the shores of Lake Huron, the Forty Mile Point Lighthouse has stood as a guiding beacon for mariners since 1896. Located just north of Rogers City, Michigan, this lighthouse played a crucial role in making the Great Lakes safer for ships navigating the sometimes treacherous waters of Lake Huron.

A Lighthouse to Fill the Gap

During the late 19th century, the U.S. Lighthouse Board recognized the need for better navigation aids along Michigan’s coastline. With existing lighthouses at Presque Isle Peninsula to the south and Cheboygan to the north, an 18-mile stretch remained unlighted and dangerous. To address this, the Forty Mile Point Lighthouse was built, ensuring that sailors were always within sight of a navigational light.

The lighthouse’s first keeper, Xavier Rains, managed the beacon, helping ships steer clear of the hazardous shoreline. The lighthouse remained operational under the U.S. Coast Guard’s jurisdiction until it was transferred to Presque Isle County in 1998. However, the Fresnel lens, an essential part of the lighthouse’s operation, remains under the ownership of the Coast Guard. Today, the site is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places (since 1984) and serves as a historical landmark open to visitors.

Lake Huron: The Graveyard of Ships

Lake Huron, the second-largest of the Great Lakes, is both breathtaking and formidable. Known as “La Mer Douce” or “The Sweet Sea” by 17th-century French explorers, it spans 3,800 miles of shoreline and holds more than 30,000 islands, including Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world.

Despite its beauty, Lake Huron has claimed over 1,200 shipwrecks, earning it the nickname “The Graveyard of Ships.” The violent storms that sweep across the lake have been responsible for countless maritime disasters, including the notorious Big Blow of 1905, during which 27 wooden ships were lost.

One of the shipwrecks, the Joseph S. Fay, a wooden steamship, ran aground near the lighthouse. Today, parts of its hull can still be seen resting on the beach, just 200 feet north of the lighthouse, serving as a haunting reminder of the dangers that once plagued mariners on the Great Lakes.

Visiting Forty Mile Point Lighthouse

If you’re planning a visit to Rogers City, Michigan, be sure to stop by the Forty Mile Point Lighthouse for a glimpse into Michigan’s rich maritime history. The lighthouse is part of a scenic park area, where you can enjoy:

Guided tours of the historic lighthouse and museum
A walk along the shoreline, where you can see remnants of shipwrecks
Stunning views of Lake Huron
Picnic areas and nature trails for a relaxing day outdoors

How to Get There

The Forty Mile Point Lighthouse is located at 7323 US-23 North, Rogers City, MI 49779.

From Rogers City, take US-23 North for approximately 7 miles.
The lighthouse is clearly marked with signs, and parking is available on-site.

Final Thoughts

The Forty Mile Point Lighthouse is more than just a historic structure—it’s a testament to Michigan’s maritime heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lighthouse lover, or simply someone looking for a beautiful Lake Huron getaway, this site offers an unforgettable experience.