Saginaw River Rear Range Light

The brick structure rises 53 feet with a two-story dwelling containing a kitchen, parlor, and three bedrooms, connected by cast iron spiral stairs to an octagonal lantern.

Constructed in 1876 as part of a range light configuration, the lighthouse guided vessels through the Saginaw River channel after the United States Army Corps of Engineers dredged it in 1867.

The lighthouse represents the maritime heritage of Michigan's central region, marking a period when lumber trade through the Saginaw River shaped local development.

The structure contained an oil storage room on the first floor and featured tightly fitting iron doors between levels to prevent fire spread throughout the building.

The lighthouse foundation required timber piles driven deep into swampy ground to support the substantial concrete base and cream city brick construction.

Location: Bay County

Inception: 1839

Architects: Godfrey Weitzel

Made from material: brick

GPS coordinates: 43.63556,-83.85028

Latest update: March 5, 2025 06:33