Lighthouse society to dedicate new historical marker

by Peter Jakey– Managing Editor

A ceremony at 40 Mile Point Lighthouse will be conducted Saturday to dedicate a Michigan Historical Marker, the recently renovated bunkhouse, and a bench overlooking Lake Huron. The event, which is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m., is to honor recent donations to the lighthouse.

The Michigan Historical Marker, the first ever to be placed at the lighthouse, stands about seven foot tall and is located just east of the circular drive, at the end of the main entrance road. It was put up a couple of weeks ago. Paid for by the Louisa St. Clair Daughters of the American Revolution, the marker has historical information on the lighthouse on one side and facts about Lake Huron being the ?Graveyard of Ships? on the other.

CONSTRUCTION OF the lighthouse was completed in 1896. The transfer of ownership from the U.S. Coast Guard to the county di

d not take place until 1998. The cast iron marker cost $2,900, while the strip at the bottom acknowledging the DAR?s purchase was another $405. The entire process of applying with the state, getting the text approved, and getting the final product delivered took about three years. While the historical marker has been placed on the site, and paid for by an outside source, it remains the property of the State of Michigan.

Also being dedicated will be the bunkhouse, which was converted into a gift shop during 2005 and 2006. Monies donated from the estate of Henry and Peggy Hoffman made the renovation possible.

Additionally, the Jim Sinclair Memorial Bench will be dedicated. The public is invited to attend. There will be refreshments available.