South Haven Lighthouse
South Haven, Michigan is known for its harbor on Lake Michigan, and its harbor is known for its South Pierhead Lighthouse. Since 1903, this lighthouse has stood on the lakeshore, but not always with its distinctive appearance. The lighthouse was originally painted white, and had a wooden walkway instead of the black metal catwalk of today. Before 1903, a completely different wooden lighthouse stood in its place.
The elevated walkway allows access to the lighthouse in severe weather. As this eScapes video demonstrates, rough conditions at the light can be dangerous, but also amazingly beautiful. Strong winds off Lake Michigan create a spectacular show of waves crashing onto the pier, sometimes even riding above the 35-foot tower.
Long held by the U.S. Coast Guard, the South Haven Lighthouse was transferred at the end of 2011 to the Historical Association of South Haven.
Paul Hardcastle is an English musician who crosses genres with his synthesizer compositions. Predominately a jazz artist, Hardcastle has released instrumental pop and new wave recordings. He may be best known for his electronic dance hits “Rain Forest” and “19,” a reflection on the Vietnam War. Hardcastle also releases albums under the name “Jazzmasters.”
Links
South Haven Visitors Bureau
Historical Association of South Haven
Terry Pepper’s Seeing the Light: South Haven Pier Lighthouse
Paul Hardcastle Official Site