Alpena Michigan
Harbour Lights #316

It was the mid 1850’s and lumber barons had their sights set on the dense forests surrounding Thunder Bay. Recognizing the need for safe entrance into the river they began prodding the Federal Government for funds to construct a pier and lighthouse. After nearly twenty years of debate, Congress approved and a temporary light was erected in September of 1875. E.G. Howard was appointed keeper of the humble beacon, a hand lantern suspended atop a pole, 25’ above the water.

Two years later, on August 18, 1877 a permanent light was completed, housing a Sixth Order Fresnel Lens. Tragedy struck on July 12, 1888 when a fire was ignited at the sawmill, destroying the pier and much of the lighthouse. Reconstruction was complete in three months. Howard resigned in July of 1889, followed by John C. Wallace who would serve for 31 years.

By 1914 the wooden light was replaced by a four-legged pyramid skeleton tower surrounded by a circular watch room, a safety railing and a Fourth Order Fresnel Lens. An automated fog bell was installed, which was later replaced with an electric siren, and finally in 1932 by a compressed air horn.

In the 1950’s the lighthouse was painted bright red and nicknamed Sputnik by locals, noting its similarity to the Russian space satellite. Eventually the Coast Guard removed the Fourth Order Fresnel and replaced it with the 250 mm Tidelands Signal acrylic optic, which remains to this day.

Alpena is home to the annual Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival. This event draws thousands of dedicated lighthouse enthusiasts who celebrate their preservation efforts to help maintain and restore Great Lakes historic beacons. For more information visit www.lighthousefestival.org and get involved today!