White River, MI

Photographer: Jeffrey W. Churill

Photographer: Roy Westin

White River White Hall, MI
Built : 1875 Type : Octagonal, Limestone Status: Inactive, Museum Location : White Hall, MI - White Lake Channel Height: 50 feet Access : Car, with parking near the Light. Exit White Lake Dr. off Hwy- 31. Turn South on South Shore following this around the Southern end of White Lake. This will turn into Murray Road, which will take you to the Light.

Photo courtesy of: U.S. Coast Guard

History of the Light : The twin city's of Whitehall and Montague where much like Muskegon and Grand Haven in the late 1800's, all located in Muskegon County which was known as the "Lumber Queen of the World." Most of this lumber being transported by ships via the Great Lakes. The ships going into the White River had difficulty locating the Harbor, a Captain by the name of Capt. William Robinson knew a Lighthouse was badly needed here. He maintained a torch at the mouth of the river while lobbying to get a Light built. When the Lighthouse was finally built in 1875, Capt. Robison with his wife Sara became the first Light Keepers. After 47 years of duty, and the recent death of his wife, the Captain was forced to retire at 87 years of age, making him one of Michigan's eldest Keepers. The day before his retirement, he past away in his sleep, today it is said you can sometimes hear him walk the stairs of the tower.

The lighthouse foundation and superstructure are constructed of limestone. It was originally equipped with a Fourth Order Fresnel lens, which was replaced when automated in 1945. The lighthouse remained in service until 1960.