Have you ever dreamed of owning a piece of history by the tranquil shores of Lake Superior? Your dream could become a reality as the Keweenaw Waterway Lower Entrance Light, a majestic 68-foot-tall lighthouse, is now available for purchase at an astonishingly low starting bid of $10,000. Nestled on the picturesque Keweenaw Bay in Michigan, this remarkable lighthouse, constructed in the years 1919-20, stands as a sentinel, casting a radiant white flash every six seconds to guide ships. This distinctive light marks the southern tip of the Portage River as it gracefully merges with the bay’s serene waters.
A Slice of History
This iconic lighthouse is part of the General Services Administration’s (GSA) unique offerings, and bidding begins at a modest price. While there isn’t a set end date for the auction, potential buyers can expect a window of opportunity lasting a few weeks to place their bids. The Keweenaw lighthouse is listed on the esteemed National Register of Historic Places. Despite the limitations this entails, the ownership of such an emblematic structure can be a labor of love. Regular maintenance is essential to keep its historical significance alive and to ensure that future generations can also appreciate its charm. Paul Hughes, a representative of the GSA, highlights that lighthouse enthusiasts often see these structures as an opportunity to contribute to preserving history and reviving them to their original grandeur.
A Chance to Embrace History
The decision to sell the Keweenaw Lighthouse emerged from its transfer to the Keweenaw Waterway Lighthouse Conservancy back in 2016. Unfortunately, the conservancy faced challenges in properly maintaining the lighthouse, leading to the decision to pass it on to a new custodian. While some lighthouses serve as sources of income through vacation rentals, others are cherished for their profound historical significance. John Kelly from the GSA explains that these lighthouses symbolize the bravery of their keepers, who ensured safe voyages for ships, while also gracing prominent locations with breathtaking views.