>> Click to enlarge << The bright light shining from the Fresnel lens, ... Photo by: David J. Green

The Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse on the eastern waters of Lake Michigan in Frankfort, Michigan will soon have its historic Fresnel lens removed. It will be replaced by a modern non-descript LED beacon.

>> Click to enlarge << If you look closely you will be able to see the ... Photo by: Francine Dollinger

Although the U.S. Coast Guard has requested public comment before removing the lens, it most cases like this, the decision, in effect, has already been made.

Because there has not been a lighthouse keeper at the lighthouse for many years to maintain the beacon, and because the tower is now owned by the City of Frankfort, and because the government has claimed that temperature fluctuations and changes in humidity are harmful to the historic lens, it will either be crated up and put in storage or possibly placed on display at a nearby location where it can be properly cared for.

The lighthouse was built in 1912 and moved to its current location in 1932 when it was raised in height from 44 feet to 67 feet. For the complete and amazing history of this lighthouse, you can refer to the story about it that appeared in the March 2012 edition of Lighthouse Digest, which can also be found on our web site.