Point
Betsie
The Point Betsie Lighthouse, Benzie County's
most famous landmark, is located on Lake Michigan just south of the Sleeping
Bear Dunes National
Lakeshore and
just north of Frankfort, Mich. Point Betsie is one of the most-photographed lighthouses
in America, and likely the most-visited attraction in Benzie County. Watching
the sunsets from Point Betsie is a long-standing tradition.
But the tradition has been in jeopardy because the lighthouse is suffering
from more than a century of exposure to the harsh Great Lakes elements. Abandoned
by the U.S. Coast Guard in 1996, its boilers have needed replacing and the
concrete
seawall protecting the majestic tower has begun crumbling. Currently, a restoration
effort is underway, including painting and rebuilding outer walls. But much
more work is needed if this grand beacon – the oldest standing structure in
Benzie County – is to survive.
Our Stories Featured Lights
Holland Harbor
Big Sable
South Fox Island
Point Betsie
Port Austin Reef
Gull Rock
