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Mendota Lighthouse

Fl W 20s🇺🇸Michigan's Western Upper Peninsula, USInactive

Location & Light Range

About Mendota Lighthouse

The Mendota Light stands on Michigan's Western Upper Peninsula. Construction of the lighthouse was completed in 1869, the same year it was first lit. The tower itself measures 11 meters in height, with its focal plane positioned 13 meters above the water. This structure emits a white light. The light is no longer operational.

Why it matters: This lighthouse was constructed to aid navigation between Lake Superior and Lac La Belle. It is recognized for its historical significance and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Background
The Mendota Light, also known as the Bete Grise light, was built on the Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan to facilitate travel between Lake Superior and Lac La Belle (an artificial canal having been made to connect the two).

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl W 20s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
20s
Focal Height
13m

Construction & History

Year Built
1869
Heritage Status
National Register of Historic Places listed place

References & Identifiers

Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Wikidata
Q6816728 →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
11m

Location

City
Michigan's Western Upper Peninsula
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
47.3743°
Longitude
-87.9667°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Mendota Lighthouse at night?+
Mendota displays the characteristic Fl W 20s — 1 white flash every 20 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area.
Which ports and harbors does Mendota Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Mendota Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 3 nearby ports. The closest is HOUGHTON at 28.9 NM to the WSW. Other ports served include MARKHAMS (30.4 NM WSW), Baraga (41.6 NM SSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Mendota Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Mendota Lighthouse is currently listed as inactive. It may have been decommissioned, replaced by a different navigation aid, or temporarily taken out of service. Mariners should check the latest Notices to Mariners for current status.
How can I track vessels near Mendota Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Mendota Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.