The Huron was the final lightship to serve on the Great Lakes, remaining in service until 1970.
The ship was powered by a 400-horsepower steam engine, replaced by a diesel engine during a 1935 refit.
Lightships were effectively floating lighthouses used where permanent structures could not be built due to water depth or shifting shoals.
The vessel's unique 'HURON' lettering on its hull served as a daytime identification mark for passing ships.
The ship survived multiple collisions during its 49-year career, a testament to its heavy steel construction.
The lantern atop the mast used a powerful 1,000-watt bulb that could be seen for miles in clear weather.
During its active years, the ship was painted bright red to ensure high visibility against the blue water.
The ship is now permanently dry-docked and anchored in concrete within Pine Grove Park.
The Huron Lightship Museum is a decommissioned floating lighthouse anchored in Pine Grove Park, Port Huron. As the last surviving lightship on the Great Lakes, it served as a mobile navigational beacon for mariners from 1921 until its retirement in 1970. Visitors explore the vessel's original engine room, galley, crew quarters, and the lantern room. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1989 for its role in maritime safety. The ship operated on several stations, including Corsica Shoals and Lake Huron, marking hazardous reefs. The museum displays original maritime equipment and honors the 11-man crew that once maintained the ship. It sits directly on the St. Clair River, overlooking the international border between Michigan and Ontario.
From the park shoreline to capture the full profile of the red ship against the blue St. Clair River.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes to navigate the steep, ladder-like stairs between ship decks.
Bring a light jacket, as temperatures inside the hull can be significantly cooler than outdoors.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding Pine Grove Park to see the riverfront views.
Do not attempt to visit if you have mobility issues, as the ship's internal stairs are narrow and steep.
Open seasonally from spring through early autumn; closed during winter months.
Avoid touching sensitive navigational instruments and watch your head on low bulkheads.
