In December 2025, Lakeshore Keepers announced an ambitious $450,000 restoration project to preserve the brick exterior of the keeper’s dwelling at the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse. As of April 2026, the organization is pleased to report that this significant financial milestone has been achieved, marking the successful completion of its largest capital campaign in history.
The restoration will involve removing decades-old layers of exterior paint using a chemical process to prevent further degradation, addressing organic growth between the paint and brick, restoring the dwelling’s historic masonry, and applying a specialized masonry finish. These measures will prevent moisture retention and allow the building to breathe.
The campaign received an initial $150,000 grant from the Jeffris Family Foundation of Janesville, WI, and gained further momentum with a $75,000 pledge from Jim and Donna Stuck of the Fibre Converters Foundation. Their combined support enabled all subsequent donations to be matched dollar-for-dollar.
Lakeshore Keepers is currently reviewing bids for repairs to the chimney and the north porch foundation wall of the Keepers’ Quarters. These projects are scheduled for completion in 2026, while the remainder of the Keepers’ Quarters restoration is planned for 2027, coinciding with the Big Sable 160th Anniversary Year.
“We are immensely grateful for the tremendous support this campaign has received during the four months it was promoted to the public. Due to this overwhelming generosity, we are two years ahead of schedule in soliciting bids and completing the restoration of the Keepers’ Quarters at Big Sable.” – Jack Greve, Executive Director, Lakeshore Keepers.
“I want to congratulate Lakeshore Keepers - in the 30-year history of our foundation, no one has raised their funds more quickly!” – Thomas Jeffris, President, Jeffris Family Foundation.
Big Sable Point Lighthouse will be open for tours starting May 4, 2026. The additional four lighthouses that Lakeshore Keepers' managers will be opening throughout the remainder of May. Lakeshore Keepers encourages everyone to visit a lighthouse this summer and hopes to see you this summer.
