There are only 13-15 lightships still remaining in the U.S. and this one in Port Huron is still fully functional, although moored. It was built in 1920, commissioned in 1921, and retired from the Coast Guard in 1970. The ship was the last operating lightship on the Great Lakes. It was subsequently presented to the city of Port Huron and is currently open as a museum. Here are two old photos from the internet:
It's a fascinating little vessel, just 97 feet long and it held a crew of eleven. It wasn't built for speed or luxury. It had only to float in a spot that was dangerous for other ships.
There are docents on board who will talk your ear off but are truly full of all kinds of information. Thankfully, one is free to tour around on one's own. Here are some photos from the interior.
Even a Lightship had a brig.
In 1958, Robert Gullickson lost his life attempting to deliver mail and paychecks to The Huron from another ship. His small boat was swamped and his body was never found.
There are a few of these ships turned into museums around the country and Michigan is fortunate to have The Huron here as a living piece of history.
