Portage Lake North Pierhead

Established: 1891
Constructed: 1891
Active Beacon: Yes
Federal Ownership: No
Accessible to Public: No
Accessible for Climbing: No
Museum on Site: No

The first Government pierhead light, which was kerosene, was placed at the end of the north pier in 1891 and was tended by Captain John Langland. Langland remained at Portage Lake in his official capacity as light tender until the light was automated and lighted with acetylene gas in 1917. Work began on the wooden substructures of the outer piers in 1883 and continued through 1901. A metal catwalk leading to the wooden light was also built in 1901. A steel light tower replaced the wooden structure in 1930. The cement superstructures were added to the outer piers in 1939-1940. The wooden inner piers were rebuilt of stone and cement in 1939-40. This steel tower was removed in 1985 and a cylinder with a light was installed at that time. In 2001, contracts were let to renovate the piers again.
WMTA
WMTA · 3665 28th St. SE Suite B · Grand Rapids, MI 49512 · 800-442-2084
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