Detroit River Light

Detroit River Light is a navigation lighthouse located in Lake Erie in Monroe County, standing approximately 15 meters tall.This structure guided vessels approaching the Detroit River from the south, serving as a key waypoint for river traffic.

The lighthouse was constructed in 1885 by the United States Lighthouse Board as part of the region's navigation system.It has remained a fixture on Lake Erie for well over a century, guiding countless vessels safely through the waters.

The structure represents a key piece of maritime heritage, marking how waterways were managed during the region's shipping boom era.It reminds visitors of the practical ingenuity required to keep commercial routes safe in these busy waters.

The structure is not open to the public for direct visits, but can be viewed from boat tours operating on Lake Erie during warmer months.Bringing binoculars helps get a better look at the lighthouse from the water.

In December 1997, the cargo ship MV Buffalo collided with the lighthouse, yet the structure sustained the impact without damage.This incident demonstrated the strength of the original construction, though the vessel itself suffered significantly.

Location: Monroe County

Inception: 1875

Height: 15 m

GPS coordinates: 42.00082,-83.14125

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:07