The Copper Harbor Lighthouse is one of more than 115 lighthouses that dot the coastline of Michigan’s peninsulas. Standing at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, it is the state’s northernmost lighthouse along Lake Superior.

The Copper Harbor light has resided in three spots over the course of the last 160 years. The original light tower was built in 1848 adjacent to the keeper’s dwelling. While the light tower no longer stands, the keeper’s dwelling remains and currently serves as a museum.

It is unknown why the current lighthouse, built in 1866, was constructed so shortly after the original light tower (18 years). It was the second structure to house the lighting apparatus until 1933, when the current steel tower was built.

For More Information

• Copper Harbor Lighthouse Tours: Lighthouse History
• Copper Harbor Lighthouse, Michigan Historical Center