Lighthouse enthusiasts are invited to serve this summer as volunteer lighthouse keepers at the Tawas Point Lighthouse, located in Tawas Point State Park in East Tawas, Michigan. Keepers will receive lodging on site in exchange for conducting guided tours of the lighthouse. In 2017, the program will run from May 17 through Oct. 17.
The 1876 Tawas Point Lighthouse is a well-known landmark in Tawas Point 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 service per week.
The lightkeeper lodging is located in the second story of the dwelling attached to the lighthouse. Accommodations include two comfortable bedrooms that 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.
At least two 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 Keeper Program, contact Hillary Pine at pineh@michigan.gov. Review of applications will begin Feb. 1, 2017, and continue until all slots are filled.
Tawas Point Lighthouse is one of 11 nationally-accredited museums administered by the Michigan History Center in cooperation with the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. Located in Tawas Point State Park off U.S. 23, 2.5 miles southeast of East Tawas, the lighthouse is open for tours Thursday through Monday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. From mid-May to Memorial Day and Labor Day to mid-October, tours are offered Friday through Sunday.
The Michigan History Center is part of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Its museum and archival programs foster curiosity, enjoyment and inspiration rooted in Michigan stories. 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/michiganhistory.
