A much-beloved state landmark is now recognized as a National Historic Landmark:
Split Rock Lighthouse, part of Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, was awarded the historic designation last week. It's only the 12th lighthouse across the U.S. to be so designated, and only the second on the shores of a Great Lake. Split Rock was nominated both because of its history in terms of the importance of shipping in the earlier 20th century, and because of its pristine condition (it opened in 1910, having been built after horrendous storms in 1905 damaged and/or destroyed 30 ships).
Besides visiting the Lighthouse itself, you can also walk down the Tramway to the beach, and see why this particular piece of shoreline was so treacherous without light.
The Lighthouse is open mid-May through mid-October, and then again each year on the anniversary of the Edmund Fitzgerald tragedy, in November, when the beacon is lit in remembrance.
I am so going to see that someday.
It's a beautiful place to visit, and well worth the extra time to clamber down to the beach and do a little hiking. Also? Great gift shop. Not, of course, that that plays into the national significance.
Oh cool! I haven't been there for more years than I care to mention. Yes, I should go!
Posted by: Miss T | August 23, 2011 at 11:16 AM
Yes, yes, you should.
Posted by: Amy Rea | August 23, 2011 at 11:23 AM
Very fitting award.
Posted by: rudee | August 23, 2011 at 12:10 PM
It is, Rudee. Now you really must come and visit.
Posted by: Amy Rea | August 23, 2011 at 01:25 PM
That looks fabulous! And those stairs are so much nicer than the ones out here.
Posted by: Carrie#K | September 01, 2011 at 04:44 PM