Skillagalee Light

Ile Aux Galets, Michigan, USA

Lake Michigan

On a narrow, gravelly outcrop of land in northern Lake Michigan, you will find Ile Aux Galets Light, nicknamed "Skillagalee" by early Great Lakes sailors. Ile Aux Galets is French for "Island of Pebbles," which is accurate.

There has been a lighthouse here since the 1851; this is the third. It is 58' high and was built in 1888 to replace a previous tower built in 1868.

Over time, the size of Ile Aux Galets varies with changes in the water level of Lake Michigan. Because of its close proximity to the shipping channel near Waugoshance, this little island is an ongoing threat to navigation regardless of its size. The constant erosion presents major engineering challenges in maintaining any light structure at this site.

In 1969, the keeper's residence and other buildings were demolished when the light was automated. Only the tower was left standing.

The water is very shallow near this light, and it is dangerous to approach closely in any large boat. On a clear day, you can see Skillagalee from the historic Indian settlement of Cross Village on the mainland. Watch for Leg's Inn to locate the spot.

As you can see, I revisited this light ten years after first photographing it. Note the bush on the island: it has been defoliated by the prolific cormorants. This destruction has been commonplace on small islands throughout the area. Sorry for the quality of the photo. It was foggy and raining the day I was there.