301 CHEBOYGAN CRIB LIGHT MI, Collectors Family Reunion, HL 691R, #333 of 529 issued and retired in August of 2005, made in China, box (#9), Certificate of Authenticity, tent card, Signed by B. Younger, 05 Nancy, and Kim. This replica is a Lake Huron lighthouse.
MEASUREMENTS: L = 6½” x W = 4½” x H = 5½”
CONDITION: Very good. Displayed for a short time in glass-enclosed curio cabinet.
NOTE: for the most part, I only collected full size Harbour Lights. GLOWS and Little Lights of Mine will be clearly identified as such should I find I have any.
A complete redo of this replica was necessitated by foam wrapping that was too tight, causing stress cracks on trunks of both trees.
Located in the midst if a beautiful harbor town, situated along Lake Huron and the Cheoboygan River, the Cheboygan Crib Lighthouse is as quaint as the county which surrounds it. Whether it is winter or fall, this area is a bustle of tourists and locals enjoying the area’s abundant backdrop. The Cheboygan Lighthouse is just one of many attractions to enjoy while in the area.
In 1883, the contract was approved to build a lighthouse to guide travelers into the Cheboygan River. Work actually began in 1884. First the wooden crib was constructed onshore and was then lowered into the water and towed out to the entrance of the dredged river channel. It was then sunk into place and the upper level of oak timber framework was constructed on top. The cast iron tower was then assembled atop and securely bolted in place. The flashing red 4th-Order Fresnel lens was then installed. Once construction was complete, the lighthouse received a fresh coat of brown paint and the light was illuminated on November 1, 1884.
In 1897, it was brought to the attention of the District Inspector that the Cheboygan Crib Lighthouse had no Keepers Dwelling on site. He immediately ordered the construction of a small dwelling and a pile protection for the boat. The Keepers were extremely thankful for this change, as the previous working conditions were incredibly treacherous and time-consuming. Other improvements followed, including a coat of white paint on the main tower and bright red paint on the lantern room roof in 1901.
The light was officially automated in the late 1920's. After evaluating the structures condition, the Coast Guard decided to scrap the iron tower and dynamite the crib. When local citizens heard of the plan, they decided to see if there was a way to save the well-known landmark. The Coast Guard agreed to donate the tower to the city of Cheboygan for display and a new home for the structure was decided on at the West Breakwall of Gordon Turner Park. In 1984, the tower was moved and received a new coat of white paint once it reached its final resting place.
In 2001, the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association began restoration on the again-ailing tower. They completed much-needed refurbishments and the tower is in pristine condition once again, thanks to this dedicated group.
Harbour Lights recreated this sentinel to memorialize the 2005 Collectors Reunion and was offered exclusively to Reunion attendees.
Each piece will be double boxed and packed for a 30' drop should that occur in handling.
Shipper only insures first $100 valuation at no additional cost.
PLEASE NOTE: I will only refund this amount ($100) if damage occurs unless buyer has purchased additional insurance. If buyer wishes additional insurance, the cost associated with additional insurance will be calculated and buyer will pay additional cost.
If damaged in shipping, buyer must save damaged carton to show shipper’s rep condition of boxes.