Restoration work is only possible thanks to our

Members, Donors, and Grantors!

THANK YOU!

Since taking ownership of the North Manitou Shoal Light in 2016, NMLK has been working to preserve and restore the lighthouse structure. Listed below are our plans for restoration: steps we have taken so far and steps we plan to take in the next two years. At this point, we estimate $300,000 of additional funding is needed to complete the Crib’s restoration. With that funding, we can install necessary interior systems and finishes. The new electrical and plumbing systems will be friendly to the environment while supporting a functional kitchen, bathrooms, lighting, power outlets, and ventilation inside the Crib. New finishes will be tasteful and honor the history of the lighthouse, while also making comfortable spaces for visits and overnight stays. All restoration activities are being conducted in accordance with EPA, SHPO, and Coast Guard requirements.  Sponsors for this work will be part of getting us to the finish line, which is in sight now! Click here to find out how you can become a sponsor!

our plans for restoration

PHASE 1: Initial Clean-Up and Exterior Restoration - COMPLETE

  • Cleaned lighthouse and removed HAZMAT

  • Cleaned up and painted exterior structure

  • Restored the majority of the original windows

  • Replaced lantern house glass and deck

  • Repaired and reopened the “sea doors”

  • Repaired and resurfaced the mid-deck (the “L3 deck”)


PHASE 2: Complete Exterior / Begin Interior Restoration - IN PROGRESS

  • Temporary and non-historic interior walls demolished

  • Lift cranes repaired

  • Repaired all exterior doors

  • Complete window restoration

  • Removal of steel covering main deck

  • Main deck (or “L1”) to be resurfaced and railings to be restored


PHASE 3: Complete Interior Restoration - PLANNED and SEEKING SPONSORSHIP

  • Install new electrical system

  • Install new plumbing system

  • Install new interior finishes (includes wall repair and paint, new flooring, cabinets, plumbing fixtures, appliances, lighting fixtures, furniture, and museum displays)

Our partners

We have worked with a variety of professionals in the restoration of the North Manitou Shoal Light. We are grateful for the expertise they have shared and quality workmanship they have done on the light. Our partners over the years have included:

  • Mihm Enterprises, Inc.

  • State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)

  • Cherryland Electric Cooperative

  • Czapski & Sanders Associates

  • Geoff Niessink, Jimmy Munoz, Joel Petersen and many other local craftsman