Big Sable
Called Grande Pointe au Sable by French explorers and traders, Big Sable Point
was an important landmark for mariners traveling a treacherous stretch of Lake
Michigan shoreline between Big Sable Point and present-day Ludington. In 1855,
12 vessels shipwrecked in that area. Commerce linked to the burgeoning lumber
industry required Big Sable Point be suitably lighted. In 1866, Congress appropriated
$35,000 for a lighthouse, which was built the following year. Since 1995, the
once-dilapidated structure has been completely restored by the Big Sable Point
Lighthouse Keepers Association: new floors and roof, asbestos removal, lens replacement,
and complete re-engineering of heating, electrical and plumbing systems. It is
now in near-pristine condition, welcoming visitors during the warmer months of
the year.
Our Stories Featured Lights
Holland Harbor
Big Sable
South Fox Island
Point Betsie
Port Austin Reef
Gull Rock
