• Lakeshore Keepers has embarked on an ambitious $450,000 restoration project to preserve the historic Big Sable Point Lighthouse’s Keeper Quarters. 

  • Thanks to a generous matching grant from the Jeffris Family Foundation,  Fibre Converters Foundation, Foundation for Behavioral Resources, and Pennies from Heaven Foundation, every dollar donated until the goal is reached will be fully matched, and all online donation fees will be covered.

  • The lighthouse, standing 112 feet tall and built in 1867, is not just a symbol of Michigan’s rich maritime history but also a testament to America’s heritage. 

In December 2025, Lakeshore Keepers announced a major $450,000 restoration project to preserve the brick exterior of the keeper’s dwelling at the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse. The initiative will remove the decades-old layers of exterior paint using a chemical process to avoid further degradation, address the organic growth that has formed between the paint and brick, restore the dwelling’s historic masonry, and finish by repainting the structure with masonry finish. This initiative will prevent the structure from holding moisture and marks the organization’s largest preservation effort to date.

 

Lakeshore Keepers originally announced this campaign with the support of the Jeffris Family Foundations matching contribution of $150,000. To date, Lakeshore Keepers has secured over $380,000, which includes $225,000 in matching funds, and $50,000 from the Pennies from Heaven Foundation to support the restoration and cover online donation fees on all contributions moving forward. This means that every dollar given will be matched 1:1, and transaction fees will not affect an individual's donation.  

 

“We are in our final push to complete this Capital Campaign and are seeking $68,603 to hit our goal. With our new goal to complete the brick restoration in 2027, Big Sable’s 160th Anniversary year, we need the support now more than ever. If you are able to give, you can help support Big Sable Point Lighthouse for future generations.”  – Jack Greve, Executive Director, Lakeshore Keepers

 

“Standing 112 feet tall and built in 1867, Big Sable Point Lighthouse is a remarkable symbol of Michigan’s—and America’s—maritime heritage. We’re proud to support Lakeshore Keepers in their effort to restore and protect this landmark for future generations. Their dedication to community engagement and historic preservation aligns perfectly with our mission.” – Jeffris Family Foundation Spokesperson

 

“As avid sailors who have frequently passed Big Sable on cruising trips, this lighthouse has always been our sign that we’re in Northern Michigan. It is truly a remarkable historic landmark, and it must be preserved for future generations.” – Jim and Donna Stuck, Fibre Converters Foundation

 

“A lighthouse is built to shine in the darkest conditions as a beacon of hope. Restoring ours reflects the resilience and shared responsibility that define this community — and what’s possible when we come together around a common purpose. As stewards in our area, we are committed to ensuring Big Sable Point Lighthouse stands strong.”    - Monica Jewell, Executive Director, Pennies from Heaven Foundation

Donations are welcome. To support the project or learn more, please contact Lakeshore Keepers.

Lakeshore Keepers Contact Information:

Website: Lakeshorekeepers.org
Office telephone: (231) 845-7417
Email: office@lakeshorekeepers.org
Mailing Address: PO Box 673, Ludington, MI 49431.