Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Beaver Island, located in northern Lake Michigan, is part of the Beaver Archipelago formed by geological activity from the retreat of ancient ice sheets. As the largest island in Lake Michigan, it measures about 21 kilometers long and 10 kilometers wide, and features diverse environments including upland forests, dunes, wetlands, and marshes, supporting rare plant and bird species along with key fish spawning grounds.
The island is home to around 600 residents, many descended from Irish immigrants who settled there in the mid-1800s, giving Beaver Island the nickname “America’s Emerald Isle.” In the late 19th century, it was an important supplier of freshwater fish in the United States until overfishing reduced the stocks. Farming and fishing were productive for early settlers.
Two lighthouses were built to support ship traffic on the Great Lakes. The Beaver Head Lighthouse operated from 1852 until 1962 on the island’s southern end, while the northern Beaver Island Harbor Light, lit in 1870, continues to operate today.
Visitors reach Beaver Island by boat or plane to explore historical sites and enjoy recreational activities like biking, fishing, and kayaking. Its remote location and minimal light pollution led to the 2024 creation of the Beaver Island State Wildlife Research Area International Dark Sky Sanctuary, offering excellent stargazing and opportunities to view the aurora borealis and other celestial events.