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Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse

Fl R 4s🇺🇸Indiana, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse

The Michigan City Breakwater Light was constructed in 1911 and first illuminated that same year. The tower is a white, 9.5-meter-tall square pyramidal structure. A narrow red horizontal band encircles the upper section of the lighthouse. The light emits a single red flash every 4 seconds from a focal height of 12 meters. This station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its historical significance.

Why it matters: This structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl R 4s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
Red
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
4s
Focal Height
12m

Construction & History

Year Built
1911
Heritage Status
National Register of Historic Places listed place

References & Identifiers

USCG No.
7-19555
ARLHS No.
USA-1016
Wikidata
Q82458937 →

Tower & Structure

Tower Shape
pyramidal
Tower Color
white

Location

City
Indiana
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
41.7299°
Longitude
-86.9140°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse at night?+
Michigan City Breakwater displays the characteristic Fl R 4s — 1 red flash every 4 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. The red color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is MICHIGAN CITY at 0.3 NM to the SE. Other ports served include Burns Harbor (12.1 NM WSW), Portage (13.7 NM WSW), Three Oaks (14.4 NM ENE), Gary (19.5 NM WSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Michigan City Breakwater 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.