Lighthouse Lesson #4: Point Betsie Lighthouse in Frankfurt, Michigan

Point Bestie Lighthouse, Photo by Krenda

Take a trip to Frankfurt, Michigan and go north to Point Betsie Lighthous.  Point Betsie Lighthouse was originally named Pointe Aux Bec Scies, meaning point point of sawbill ducks, by French explorers. The lighthouse provided safety to the ships coming from the southern entrance to the Manitou Passage.

The combination of the beautiful hipped-roofed lighthouse and location with amazing views (Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear, and Manitou Islands), it's no wonder it is one of the most photographed lighthouses.  It sits upon a dune, placing it 52 feet above lake level.  Locals recognize the site too.  It's rated as #1 lighthouse according to a Michigan resident survey (10,000 voters) about things they love about Northern Michigan.  All ages will appreciate the surrounding beautiful nature and nearby beach.

The site has had multiple buildings for many years.  Even with the light and sound of the fog horn warning ships getting close to the shore, a life-saving station was deemed necessary.  It opened in 1877 to rescue shipwrecked victims.  The lighthouse has been operating since 1858 and changing throughout time. It was later painted white to increase visibility during the day.  To house two families, the house was enlarged in 1895 and the hip roof replaced the gambrel design.  The fog signal building was rebuilt in 1912 and moved from locomotive whistles to chime whistles.  Electric bulb installed in 1921.  It was one of the last lighthouses in Michigan to be automated.  The fourth-fresnel lens once removed in 1996 was returned.  The Friends of Point Betsie Lighthouse led the restorations and recognized for their achievements with The Governor's Award for Historic Preservation.  It's recognized as the oldest standing structure in Benzie County and also listed in the National Register of Historic Places.  Coast Guard now operates using an automated light. 

You can take a tour for only $5 and that includes the climb up the 34-step tower.  You'll see the Boathouse Museum and Fog Signal Building.  Note that you must be at least 3 1/2 feet to climb the tower.  When you make purchases at the gift shop, you also help support the lighthouse.  The lighthouse needs high financial support.  With climate change, the lake has record high water levels that erode the shoreline.   The Shoreline Protection System (SPS) installed in 1869 and reconstructed in 1944 needs updates to keep protecting the lighthouse.  You can donate directly to the capital campaign.