Squaw Island Light

Squaw Island Light is a red brick lighthouse with white trim that stands 15 meters tall on an island in the waters of northern Michigan. The tower features an octagonal lantern room at the top and sits in a location where surrounding waters are quite shallow.

Construction of this beacon was completed in 1892 after Congress approved funding the year before. Its role in guiding ships changed when a newer navigation station began operating nearby in the early 20th century.

The lighthouse served as residence for multiple keeper families until 1928, when the establishment of Lansing Shoals Light Station made it unnecessary.

This lighthouse sits on private property and is not open to visitors. The best way to view it is from a boat on the water surrounding the island.

The original Fresnel lens that once illuminated this beacon is now housed in the National Museum of the Great Lakes. Visitors interested in lighthouse history can view this optical technology that was central to the tower's navigation function.

Location: Charlevoix County

Inception: 1892

Height: 15 m

GPS coordinates: 45.84056,-85.58694

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:03