Grand Traverse, MI

Photographer: Debbie Westin

Grand Traverse

(Cat's head Point)

Leelanau Peninsula, MI

Built : 1853

Type : Rectangular, Brick

Status : Inactive

Location : Northern tip of the Leelanau Peninsula

Height : 38 feet

Access : Car, Parking near the Light. Take Michigan Route 22 to M-201. Take that to County Road 640 and then to CR-629 which will take you threw Leelanau State Park. This will take you right to the Light.

History of the Light : On September 28, 1850 Congress approved $4,000 to be spent on the construction of a lighthouse at Cat's Head Point. This was to help mark the entrance into Grand Traverse Bay. The first light went into operation in 1853 with Deputy U.S. Marshal Philo Beers serving as the keeper until 1857. At that time his son Henry Beers took over. Construction of the current two story keeper's house was completed in 1858. This two story brick structure has a gabled roof with the light tower extending from it. The Lantern room is (9) sided with cast iron framing. The original Barbier and Fenestre Fourth order Fresnel lens is no longer here with the lighthouse inactive. In 1899 a brick fog signal building was constructed. This building along with a brick oil house still stand nearby. A new steel tower now stands further out with an automated light taking place of this lighthouse for use in navigation.

The State of Michigan now leases the land with a museum and gift shop open from early May into October. For more information contact: The Grand Traverse Lighthouse Foundation at (616) 386-7195 or Email gtlthse@gtii.com