A slim white beacon with a bold red band stands at the end of Marquette’s rocky breakwater. Against Lake Superior’s blue water, the pale tower and orange lichen make a striking contrast. Todd’s photographs follow the long line of boulders toward the harbor’s outer light.
Quick Facts
| Location | Outer breakwater, Marquette Lower Harbor, Michigan |
|---|---|
| Waterway | Lake Superior |
| First breakwater light | 1875 |
| Present tower | Installed in 1985 |
| Design | White cylindrical tower with a broad red band |
| Status | Active navigation light |
| Viewing | Shoreline and breakwater exterior views |
History & Description
A light first marked Marquette’s breakwater in 1875 as harbor improvements supported shipping on Lake Superior. A square steel lighthouse followed in 1908 and served until 1985, when the present cylindrical beacon replaced it.
The current light has a compact, practical form: a white tower, a broad red band, and a concrete foundation above the rubble breakwater. It marks the outer end of the Lower Harbor breakwater, separate from the red Marquette Harbor Lighthouse farther north.
Visitor Information
- Finding the light
- Look toward the outer end of the Lower Harbor breakwater from Marquette’s waterfront. This is the outer breakwater light, distinct from Marquette Harbor Lighthouse and the Presque Isle Harbor light.
- Breakwater conditions
- The boulder surface is uneven and exposed. Check posted access notices and conditions before approaching; remain ashore when waves, wind, wet rocks, or ice make the route unsafe.
- Tower access
- Plan for exterior viewing. This working navigation beacon is not a lighthouse tower climb.
- Photography
- Wide views emphasize the curving breakwater and open lake. A longer lens brings out the red band and concrete base, while a low viewpoint highlights the lichen-covered rocks.
Photo Gallery
Three photographs by Todd. Select a photograph to view it larger.
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