5 Awesome Minnesota Lighthouses

Happy National Lighthouse Day! Yes, it is a real thing. It is celebrated every year on August 7th, in 1789 "Congress approved an Act for the establishment and support of lighthouse, beacons, buoys and public piers." Here are some awesome lighthouses in Minnesota!

1. Split Rock Lighthouse - Duluth

First lit in 1910, Split Rock Lighthouse is located in Beaver Bay Township near Duluth, and is a popular tourist destination. The structure was originally built in response to the loss of  29 ships during the famous Mataafa Storm of 1905. At the time of its construction, there were no roads to the area, and all building materials arrived by water and had to be lifted by crane to the top of the cliff. Now it is so popular a major highway runs to it!

2. Duluth North Pier Light - Duluth

This light was built in 1896 as part of an effort to improve harbor facilities in Duluth. The south pier had a light, but the north was soon added to make it easier for ships to navigate into the harbor. This lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2016!

3. Two Harbors Light - Two Harbors Minnesota

This lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in the state of Minnesota. It was built in 1891, the first Two Harbors keeper was Charles Lederle and there were normally three keepers assigned to make sure the light was lit every day.  The Keeper's Quarters of the Lighthouse were restored to the early 20th century era which the Lake County Historical Society operates as a bed and breakfast!

4. Minnesota Point Light - Duluth 

This lighthouse was first lit in 1858, and deactivated in 1913. It was the very first lighthouse built in Minnesota, but was unfortunately not built well, as an 1868 report complained of leaks and fallen plaster. It still stands today and what remains of it were put on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

5.  Grand Marais Light - Grand Marais

This tower was built back in 1922 and is still operational to this day! The original keeper's house is now operated as the main museum of the Cook County Historical Society. The museum features exhibits on area history, industry, and culture.

Do you have any fond memories of visiting any of these lighthouses? Leave them in the comments below!

For more awesome Minnesota lighthouse pics, and just awesome pictures in general, check out Matthew Breiter Photography!