Peters leads resolution designating Aug. 7th as National Lighthouse Day
Michigan is home to more than 120 lighthouses, more than any other state in the country
Trending
WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Gary Peters, D- MI, is leading a bipartisan resolution designating August 7, 2026 as "National Lighthouse Day." The resolution - which Peters introduced with U.S. Senators Thom Tillis, R-NC, and Angus King ,I-ME, - encourages all Americans to visit and support the preservation of our nation's historic lighthouses. The resolution also honors the historical significance of Michigan's lighthouses and recognizes the dedicated workers who protect these landmarks and share their stories in communities across the state.
"The Great Lakes are part of who we are as Michiganders, and our lighthouses are a crucial piece of that heritage," Peters said. "I'm proud to lead this bipartisan resolution that urges folks to appreciate and help protect these historic landmarks for generations to come."
According to the United States Lighthouse Society, Michigan is home to more than 120 lighthouses along its more than 3,000 miles of coastline, the most of any U.S. state. Today, these lighthouses serve as reminders of the state's rich maritime history. Michigan lighthouses were integral to helping ships navigate the Great Lakes during the 1800's and early 1900's, supporting the robust Great Lakes maritime economy. Many of these lighthouses remain operational in present day, while others now operate as museums and educational centers.
The first lighthouse built in the State in 1825, the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, is still active to this day and is home to a museum. Many Michigan lighthouses, like Big Red in Holland and Big Sable Point in Ludington, are also popular tourist destinations for visitors from across the nation.
This resolution is supported by the United States Lighthouse Society, American Lighthouse Foundation, and the Lighthouse Preservation Society.