Port Austin Light

Port Austin Light is a lighthouse standing 18 meters tall on a reef in Lake Huron, constructed from yellow brick with pale trim. It rests on an octagonal concrete foundation that rises from the water and contains living quarters along with a fog signal installation inside.

Construction began in 1877 after Congress approved funding, and the light first shone on September 15, 1878. It was built to guide ships safely through treacherous waters and support the growing shipping activity in the region.

The light serves as a landmark tied to local maritime traditions and is recognized by residents as part of their heritage along the lake. Its name reflects the port's historical role in shipping routes across the water.

To visit the lighthouse, travelers can book licensed pontoon boat tours that take them out on the water for a closer view. The structure operates on solar power and remains active, so visitors see it functioning in its current role.

The lighthouse rests on a special octagonal concrete foundation platform that is about 30 meters wide and rises from the water. This unusual design allowed living spaces and equipment to be installed directly on the platform, which was a noteworthy solution for offshore construction at that time.