Tawas Point LighthouseLighthouse enthusiasts are invited to serve as volunteer lighthouse keepers at the Tawas Point Lighthouse, in Tawas Point State Park, this summer. Keepers will receive lodging on-site in exchange for conducting guided tours of the lighthouse. In 2016 the program will run from May 12 through Oct. 13.The 1876 Tawas Point Lighthouse is a well-known landmark in the state park, attracting visitors from all over the world. Keeper tasks include greeting visitors, giving tours, providing information about the lighthouse and the Tawas area, and light maintenance duties. Participating keepers provide roughly 35 hours of related service per week.
The lightkeeper lodging is located in the second story of the dwelling attached to the lighthouse. Accommodations include two comfortable bedrooms, which can sleep up to three adults, as well as a modern kitchen, shower and bath. The minimum commitment for staying at the lighthouse is two consecutive weeks. Preference will be given to those who can stay for four weeks or more.
At least two, and preferably three, keepers are needed for each two-week period. Those with knowledge of lighthouse lore or Great Lakes maritime history are especially encouraged to apply. Those selected will receive historical information packets and on-site orientation to help prepare them for their tour duties.
Interested parties should complete and submit the Tawas Point Lighthouse Keeper application at www.michigan.gov/tawaslighthouse (click on “Lightkeeper Program” under “Explore”). For more information about the Tawas Point Lighthouse Keepers Program, contact Maria Quinlan Leiby at leibym@michigan.gov. Review of applications will begin Feb. 16.
Tawas Point Lighthouse is one of 11 nationally accredited museums administered by the Michigan Historical Center, in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division. Located in Tawas Point State Park, 2.5 miles southeast of East Tawas off of U.S. 23, the lighthouse is open for tours Thursday through Monday, from mid-May to Labor Day. From Labor Day to mid-October, tours are offered Friday through Sunday.
The Michigan Historical Center is part of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Its museum and archival programs help people discover, enjoy and find inspiration in their heritage. It includes the Michigan Historical Museum, 10 regional museums, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Underwater Preserve, and the Archives of Michigan. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/mhc.
