About Us

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Our Mission

The Purpose of the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum is to provide educational opportunities that enhance the understanding of the area’s maritime heritage. Towards this goal it must effectively restore and maintain the cultural landscape for the benefit of the community.

Core Values

  • Promote high standards of excellence and professionalism.
  • Serve a diverse audience.
  • Provide a higher standard of museum practice
  • Engage the community.
  • Collaborate with other organizations on a local, regional & national basis.
  • Preserve the cultural & natural landscape.
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Organization History

The Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum was founded on August 4, 1984 by Northport Women’s Club members Charlotte Foote and Mary Russell.  The “Friends of the Lighthouse” was established and soon became a formalized 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization called the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Foundation (now Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum) with the goal of preserving the historic buildings an creating and interesting and educational “living museum” for the public to enjoy.

The Museum was opened on Memorial Day in 1986 and since then thousands of people have visited and climbed the tower for a spectacular view of Lake Michigan.  Now, 36 years later, this dedicated group of volunteers has surpassed all expectations and goals set forth.  Today, the lighthouse keeper’s dwelling is restored and filled with artifacts and tales of those adventurous “days gone by”.  Over the years, Museum members and friends have generously donated countless volunteer hours and financial support.  To date, we have raised and reinvested nearly 2 million dollars in this historic property.

For more information please visit our Facebook page.  You can also send us an email at info@grandtraverselighthouse.com.

Get Involved

Become a member of the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum and receive benefits such as free admission to the museum (for members and their guests), discounts in the Lighthouse Gift & Camp Store, a quarterly newsletter, and more.