Middle Island

Middle Island Canoe and Kayak Trails

Middle Island is located about two miles off shore from Rock Port. The island has a fascinating maritime history. A lifesaving stations was established in a small bay on the northeast end of the island in 1881. This lifesaving station operated until 1937, the ruins of the buildings still remain. A lighthouse was established on the east side of the island in 1905. The lighthouse is in private ownership and is operated as a bed and breakfast. The wreck of the Portsmith is located in a small bay on the northwest corner of the island. This 176-foot ship ran aground on the island shoals in 1867.

Middle Island Light House

• Location: BETWEEN THUNDER BAY ISLAND / PRESQUE ISLE / LAKE HURON
• Nearest City: ALPENA
• County: ALPENA
• U.S.C.G. District: 9
• Year Station Established: 1905

Existing Historic Tower

• Year Light First Lit: 1905
• Is the Light Operational? YES
• Date Deactivated: N/A
• Automated:
• Foundation Materials: DRESSED STONE/TIMBER
• Construction Materials: BRICK AND STUCCO
• Markings/Patterns: WHITE WITH ORANGE BAND IN MIDDLE
• Shape: CONICAL ATTACHED TO SERVICE ROOM
• Relationship to Other Structures: SEPARATE
• Tower Height: 71
• Original Optic: FOURTH ORDER, FRESNEL
• Year Original Lens Installed:
• Year Present Lens Installed: 1997
• Height of Focal Plane: 78
• Fresnel Lens Disposition: VANDALIZED IN 1960'S
• Has tower been moved? NO

Return to Marquette County, Michigan Trails