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St. Helena Island Lighthouse

Fl W 6s🇺🇸Michigan's Eastern Upper Peninsula, USOperational

Constructed between 1872 and 1873, this lighthouse began operation in September 1873. The tower stands 21.5 meters tall with a focal height also at 21.5 meters. It emits a white light. The buildings associated with the light are the only structures remaining on St. Helena Island. The complex is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Why it matters: This lighthouse was part of a system guiding ships through the Straits of Mackinac, helping them navigate past a hazardous shoal originating from the island.

Background
The buildings of the St Helena Light complex are the sole surviving structures on St. Helena Island, in Mackinac County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The lighthouse on the St. Helena Island's southeastern point was built in 1872-1873 and went into operation in September 1873. It became one of a series of lighthouses that guided vessels through the Straits of Mackinac, past a dangerous shoal that extends from the island.
Characteristic Signature
Fl W 6s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
6s
Focal Height
21.5m
Year Built
1873
Heritage Status
National Register of Historic Places listed place
Tower Height
21.5m
City
Michigan's Eastern Upper Peninsula
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
45.8552°
Longitude
-84.8636°
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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How do mariners identify St. Helena Island Lighthouse at night?+
St. Helena Island displays the characteristic Fl W 6s — 1 white flash every 6 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 St. Helena Island Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
St. Helena Island Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is MACKINAW CITY at 7.3 NM to the SE. Other ports served include Mackinac Island (10.5 NM E), Brevort (12 NM NW), CHEBOYGAN (20.6 NM SE), CEDARVILLE (22.6 NM ENE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is St. Helena Island Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, St. Helena Island 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 St. Helena Island Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near St. Helena Island 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.