
History
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The station is a virtual twin to the Kewaunee Pierhead Light on the other side of Lake Michigan.
The lighthouse, popularly referred to as "Big Red" was automated in 1932. The original Sixth Order Fresnel Lens was taken to the Netherlands Museum in Holland, Michigan. A 250-mm plastic lens was exhibited in its place. When the U.S. Coast Guard recommended that it be abandoned in 1970 citizens circulated petitions to rescue it.
The Holland Harbor Lighthouse Historical Commission was then organized to preserve and restore the landmark.
Early Dutch settlers...
Reverend A. C. Van Raalte emigrated here from the Netherlands with his followers in 1847.
The Lake Macatawa (Black Lake) outlet was blocked by silt and sand. Frustrated by a lack of action from Congress, the Dutch settlers dug the channel themselves. On July 1, 1859 the small steamboat "Huron" put into port.
In 1886, the government established the harbor's first life savings station. In 1900, over one thousand ships used the port
Founding Documents and Early Images of Note...



Maintaining a Treasured Heritage
Archives
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The Holland Historic Lighthouse Commission maintains the structure and records of this unique treasure and relies on contributions of local residents, visitors and friends.
You can find more about how you can ensure that national historic treasures like Big Red remain a vital part of our architectural and maritime cultural heritage on our contact page.
The following links provide access to local and state organizations that partner with us in celebrating all that Big Red and the greater Holland area adds to the distinctive lifestyle that is enjoyed on the shores of Lake Michigan
Links to Local Resources
michiganlighthousealliance.org
parktownship.org www.historicottawabeachsociety.org
wunderground.com/weather-forecast/49423
michiganshipwrecks.org
www.outdoordiscovery.org
lighthouse.boatnerd.com
www.audubon.org/
uschamber.com/
www.uscg.mil
www.the-macc.org/watershed/overview
www.holland.org
michigan.org/property/holland-area-convention-visitors-bureau
www.gllka.com/excursions/michigan.htm
www.unc.edu/~rowlett/lighthouse/miwl.htm
lighthouse.boatnerd.com/gallery/Michigan
