Irish Hills Towers, Twin observation towers in Cambridge Township, Michigan, United States.
Irish Hills Towers are two identical wooden structures in Cambridge Township that stand 50 feet (15 m) along U.S. Highway 12 in Lenawee County. Each construction originally included restaurants and viewing platforms that served travelers passing through on this major route.
A company built the first structure in 1924, after which a neighboring landowner constructed a rival building in response. This competition drove both owners to repeatedly raise their structures, each trying to outdo the other.
The towers represent early American tourism development, serving as observation points and gathering places for travelers during the 20th century. They show how roadside attractions were built to draw people in and offer them places to stop and take in the view.
The towers are located at 8433 West U.S. Highway 12 and currently remain closed to visitors while preservation efforts continue through local fundraising. Before planning a visit, check ahead about current access and any developments in restoration work.
The two owners engaged in a famous competition where each tried to outdo the other's tower height, resulting in repeated renovations and additions. This unusual height rivalry along the highway became a notable feature of these roadside attractions.
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