Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
The North and South Pierhead Lights of Pentwater serve as beacons to guide pleasure boats into Pentwater’s harbor during the busy summer season.
Established in 1890 and 1873 respectively, the lights have undergone numerous changes throughout the years. Between 1856 and 1858, Charles Mears and his crew excavated a shallow channel that would allow boats to haul lumber from his mill out to Lake Michigan. The steamer DAYLITE became the first large vessel to navigate through the channel into Pentwater Lake. As more mills moved into the area, Mears and Michigan senators lobbied for harbor improvements, finally receiving the funds in 1867. These improvements included widening and deepening the channel, along with extending the piers. It was determined that a light was now needed to help guide vessels into the channel. A 12-foot timber-frame was built in 1873 on the south pier, and contained a red Sixth-Order Fresnel lens, visible for 8 1/2 miles. Local resident Francis McGuire became the first keeper of the Pentwater Light, and after four years, his wife Annie took over the job.
The Army Corps of Engineers replaced the timber piers with concrete in 1937, and the South Pierhead Light was replaced by a steel skeleton tower. Fifty years later, in 1987, a tower was erected on the north pier, and outfitted with a 300mm flashing green Tideland Signal optic; it also included a fog signal.
The current South Pierhead Light stands 25 feet tall, with the North Pierhead Light at 17 feet tall. Each is considered one of the few remaining pier range light systems located on the Great Lakes.
Planning a visit to the Pentwater area? Have questions about your trip? Here’s where you can find help:
The Pentwater River provides opportunities to experience a paddle sport for the first time or take on a challenge for those more experienced.
Get some fresh air and exercise during those cold winter months when you hit the Pentwater Pathway for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
The village of Pentwater, Michigan has beautiful beaches and fun shops to explore. They also host many festivals and events all year.
Welcome to Charles Mears State Park in Pentwater, Michigan. Lake Michigan beaches for great boating and swimming, camping, and family fun.
Find artifacts, photographs, and lots of information and stories about the rich history of Pentwater at this historic museum!
Pentwaer fishing reports for Pentwater Lake and Lake Michigan are provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.