Whitefish Point Light

Paradise, Michigan, USA

Lake Superior

A Great Lakes captain journeying eastward toward the Soo heaves a sigh of relief after he passs this light. It is located at Whitefish Point, and marks his arrival in sheltered water and the beginning of his home stretch. Whitefish Point is the eastern end of Lake Superior's dangerous "Graveyard Coast." The dangerous waters off Whitefish Point have been marked by Lighthouses since 1847. The first was built of masonry, but couldn't withstand the severe winters. This 80-foot high tower, despite its seemingly modern design, was built in 1861. It was automated in 1970. The building to the right of the light tower houses the fog sigal.

Over seventy major shipwrecks have occurred off Whitefish Point. The last major shipwreck in this area was the EDMUND FITZGERALD, which broke up in Lake Superior during an intense gale November 10th, 1975. All hands were lost, and no bodies were ever found.

The keeper's residence was built in 1861 as a single-family dwelling. In 1885, the building was split into duplex quarters for two keepers and their families. An addition on the back of the house contained two kitchens and dining rooms.

Whitefish Point is now operated by the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society. The modern Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is located next door. The museum features a major EDMUND FITZGERALD exhibit including the ship's bell that was recovered from the wreck.