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The Rock of Ages Lighthouse preservation society received a grant with a $23,000 match, totaling a grant of $46,000 to aid in the lighthouse’s restoration.
The Rock of Ages lighthouse is 132 ft tall, and is situated on a tiny rock just 3 miles off the coast of Isle Royale.
It was last painted in 1985. It currently has cracks in the foundation and masonry, which could halt the restoration efforts if water keeps entering. A specialized contractor will be employed to clean, repair, and paint the exterior of the lighthouse.
“We are very excited to receive this grant from the Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program,” said Rock of Ages Lighthouse Preservation Society Executive Director, David Gerth. He said, “this project marks a huge step toward our goal of opening the lighthouse to the public in the future.”
The Keweenaw County Historical Society a $60,000 grant with a match of $39,000 to hire a contractor to rehabilitate the tower of the Eagle Harbor Lighthouse.
“This funding will help us preserve and maintain our 150+-year old lighthouse in a manner that is historically correct” said Keweenaw County Historical Society President Mel Jones. The Keweenaw County Historical Society is a non-profit volunteer-run organization.
