Commemorating the past, present and future of an iconic lighthouse
When a lighthouse has a milestone birthday, a celebration is in order! On August 17, 2024 more than 200 people joined in commemorating the150th anniversary of the Au Sable Light Station, which has had continuous service since it was built in 1874.
Located within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the lighthouse has gone through a few changes during its years of service. One of the biggest was a name change in 1910, when it went from Big Sable Light Station to Au Sable Light Station, to confirm its geographical location.Â
The celebration day was cool and foggy as visitors had the chance to climb the 98 steps to the top of the lighthouse and tour the historic keeper's quarters.Â
U.S. Coast Guard Station Marquette's Officer in Charge, Chief Petty Officer Michael Henderson, was in attendance at the event - as was their 45' response boat, in the water just offshore of the station. Chaplain Dirk Caldwell of the U.S. Coast Guard gave an invocation during the ceremony.
The ceremony also honored Carol Miller, Grand Marais resident and wife of the late Richard E. Miller, Au Sable head keeper from 1954-1956 and three longtime volunteers, Nancy Sage, Joe Pawlowski, and Bonnie Pawlowski. In-house lighthouse expert, Karena Davis, gave remarks on the history and significance of the Au Sable Light Station.
The lighthouse is still in operation, with a solar-powered light now, which shines across Lake Superior every night. For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/places/au-sable-light-station.htm
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About The NPLSF
The National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation (NPLSF) exists to provide financial support for projects and programs that preserve the natural resources and cultural heritage of the five Lake Superior national parks: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Grand Portage National Monument, Isle Royale National Park, Keweenaw National Historical Park, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Funded through grants and private donations, NPLSF projects and programs ensure that these great parks and historic sites are maintained for the enjoyment of all current and future visitors.
To learn how you can support our work visit nplsf.org/donate.
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