Death Lighthouses on the Great Lakes: An Epic Tale of Shipwrecks and Survival

In the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes, where towering waves and unforgiving storms test the limits of human endurance, there stand silent sentinels – the Death Lighthouses.

These lighthouses, perched on desolate islands and rocky shores, have witnessed countless shipwrecks and tales of survival that have become woven into the maritime folklore of the region. Their names, like echoes of tragedy, evoke images of shattered hulls, lost lives, and the unwavering courage of those who dared to navigate these unforgiving waters.

Death & Lighthouses on the Great Lakes: A History of Murder and Misfortune (Murder & Mayhem)

by Dianna Higgs Stampfler

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4431 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	179 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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The Demon of Lake Superior

Among the most infamous Death Lighthouses is the East Charity Shoal Light, a solitary tower that rises from the treacherous waters of Lake Superior. Known as the "Demon of the Lakes," this lighthouse has seen over 200 shipwrecks in its vicinity, claiming the lives of countless sailors.

In 1898, the steamer Mataafa struck the shoal near the lighthouse. As the ship began to sink, the terrified passengers and crew clung to the wreckage for dear life. Amidst the chaos and desperation, the lighthouse keeper, John Robinson, risked his own safety to launch a rescue boat.

Through relentless waves and howling winds, Robinson navigated his small boat towards the sinking steamer. One by one, he pulled survivors from the icy waters, bringing them to the relative safety of the lighthouse.

The Sentinel of Lake Michigan

On the western shores of Lake Michigan, the North Manitou Shoal Light stands as a testament to the relentless power of the Great Lakes. This lighthouse, built in 1858, has witnessed countless storms and shipwrecks, earning it the grim title of "the Sentinel of Death."

In 1872, the schooner Lady Elgin collided with another ship in thick fog. The impact sent the Lady Elgin to the bottom of the lake within minutes, taking over 300 lives. Only 17 people survived the disaster, thanks in part to the brave efforts of the lighthouse keeper, John Quigley.

Quigley kept the lighthouse lamp burning brightly throughout the night, guiding survivors towards a nearby reef. He also organized a rescue party that scoured the shoreline for any sign of survivors.

The Haunted Lighthouse of Lake Huron

On the eastern shores of Lake Huron, the Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse stands as a mysterious and haunting sentinel. This lighthouse, built in 1832, is said to be haunted by the spirits of sailors who lost their lives in the treacherous waters nearby.

In 1854, the steamer S.S. Milwaukee was caught in a violent storm and wrecked on the shores of Thunder Bay Island. Over 250 passengers and crew perished in the disaster.

The lighthouse keeper at the time, George Parris, witnessed the horror from his tower. He claimed that for years afterwards, he could hear the cries and screams of the lost souls, echoing through the fog and darkness.

The Guardians of Lake Erie

On the southern shores of Lake Erie, the Marblehead Lighthouse and Kelleys Island Lighthouse stand as twin sentinels, guarding the entrance to Sandusky Bay.

These lighthouses have witnessed countless shipwrecks, including the tragic loss of the schooner Columbia in 1858. The Columbia was carrying 200 passengers and crew when it caught fire and sank in a matter of minutes.

The lighthouse keepers at both Marblehead and Kelleys Island risked their own lives to rescue survivors from the burning wreckage. Their heroic efforts saved over 100 lives.

The Death Lighthouses of Lake Ontario

On the eastern shores of Lake Ontario, the Oswego West Pierhead Light and the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse stand as silent witnesses to the dangers of the Great Lakes.

In 1918, the steamer L.C. Walbridge collided with another ship in thick fog. The Walbridge sank quickly, taking 100 lives with it.

The lighthouse keepers at both Oswego West Pierhead and Tibbetts Point kept their lamps burning brightly throughout the night, providing a beacon of hope for survivors. They also organized rescue parties that searched the shoreline for any sign of life.

A Legacy of Sacrifice and Survival

The Death Lighthouses on the Great Lakes stand as a testament to the unforgiving nature of these majestic waters and the indomitable spirit of those who dared to navigate them.

The lighthouse keepers who braved these storms and witnessed countless tragedies played a vital role in saving lives and preserving the maritime history of the region.

Today, these Death Lighthouses continue to serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the power of human resilience in the face of adversity.

Death & Lighthouses on the Great Lakes: A History of Murder and Misfortune (Murder & Mayhem)

by Dianna Higgs Stampfler

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4431 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	179 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE