Poverty Island Light Station

Poverty Island Light Station is a lighthouse tower located on Lake Michigan in northwestern waters of Delta County. The main tower stands approximately 70 feet tall and is accompanied by wood and brick structures that housed the keeper and equipment.

This lighthouse was authorized by Congress in 1873 and began operation in 1875 to guide ships through dangerous waters. It served an important role in maritime safety during the era of active Great Lakes shipping.

The beacon here served a practical purpose for ship captains navigating the dangerous waters around the island. Over time, it became a symbol of safe passage for those traveling these challenging routes.

Access to this site requires boat transportation and is not open for regular visitor access. You can observe the structures from the water if you arrange a guided water excursion to the area.

The original cast iron lantern from this lighthouse was salvaged and reused to restore a different lighthouse in Escanaba during the 1980s. This salvage effort preserved an important piece of maritime equipment for future generations.

Location: Delta County

Inception: 1875

GPS coordinates: 45.52722,-86.66361

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:41