The mission of Lakeshore Keepers is to preserve, promote, educate the public, and make our lighthouses accessible to all.
Lakeshore Keepers provides equal employment and volunteer opportunities to all persons, regardless of race, religion, color, sex, height, weight, marital status, national origin, age, or disability.
Lakeshore Keepers History
The association was formed in 1987 by a small group of local Ludington residents, led by Mr. Dick Smith, dedicated to restoring and preserving Big Sable Point Lighthouse, located in the beautiful Ludington State Park. We have grown considerably from our humble beginnings and now have operating agreements with the State of Michigan DNR, the City of Ludington, and Fruitland Township to manage, restore, and maintain: Big Sable Point Lighthouse, Little Sable Point Lighthouse, Ludington North Breakwater Lighthouse, Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse, and the White River Light Station. The responsibilities of restoring and managing five historic lighthouses on the shores of Western Michigan have been demanding, but very rewarding. Our mission is to preserve, promote, educate the public, and make our lighthouse accessible to all.
Lakeshore Keepers Timeline
Circa 1970 - The last government Keepers leave and Big Sable Point Lighthouse is boarded up.
1970-1987 - Nature and vandalism take a toll.
1987 - Ludington concerned citizens “rescue” the light.
1987 - Big Sable Point Lighthouse Keepers Association (BSPLKA) is formed.
1991 - BSPLKA incorporated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
2004 - BSPLKA acquires lease for Little Sable Lighthouse.
2006 - BSPLKA acquires lease for the Ludington North Breakwater Light.
2012 - BSPLKA acquires concession agreement for the White River Light Station.
2012 - BSPLKA officially changes its name to Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association (SPLKA).
2018 - SPLKA awarded Governors Award for Historic Preservation of four historic Michigan lighthouses.
2025 - SPLKA acquires concession agreement for Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse.
2025 - SPLKA officially changes its name to Lakeshore Keepers.
