White Shoal Lighthouse

The White Shoal Light resides twenty miles west of the Mackinac Bridge and has guarded the Straits of Mackinac in Lake Michigan for over a century.  Construction began in 1908 with the beacon being lit for the first time in 1910.  Made of steel and brick this lighthouse towers 121 feet above its concrete crib and has a focal height of 125 feet above the cold waters.  Originally clad in white terracotta tiles and featuring Greek inspired columns the White Shoal Light was later encased in gunnite and given the unique red and white barber pole daymark that it still bears to this day.

History

For over 65 years the Light was home for many until it was later automated and unmanned by the Coast Guard in 1976.  It was then that time began to take its toll on this Lady of the Lake as it battled sun and storms during the hot summers followed by ice and snow during the cold winters.  But she never wavered and has kept her beacon lit to this day, still acting as a navigational aid to those that travelled the Straits. 

But now she has been given new hope.  In 2016 the White Shoal Light Historical Preservation Society purchased the Light from the State of Michigan through the GSA and has begun the arduous task of returning her to her former majesty.

About Us

The  Shoal Shoppe is a husband and wife team dedicated to doing our part to preserve the history of this unique Lighthouse.   We’re not only the shop keepers here but are also active members of the restoration working closely with the White Shoal Light Historical Preservation Society. 

80% of our profits go towards this noble effort to restore the Light to her original glory.  

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If you are interested in volunteering or donating to the White Shoal Light Historical Preservation Society click below and see what you can do to help!