TRAVERSE CITY, MI -- The Grand Traverse Lighthouse, located nine miles north of Northport, Michigan, at the very tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, is accepting applications to live in the historic lighthouse, built in 1858, and be a keeper for the 2011 season. 

Keepers live in the fully furnished northern apartment of the lighthouse and have full access to the lighthouse tower which boasts amazing views of the Manitou Passage and Grand Traverse Bay.  There are two bedrooms with twin beds, a full and half bath, a well appointed kitchen and large living room, all with views of the lake.  Keepers bring their own food, bedding and towels.

The Keeper Program runs from May through November.  Keepers are responsible for greeting visitors at the admissions desk and providing them with historical information.  They also run the gift shop, and work on building and grounds maintenance, cleaning and other related lighthouse projects.  They must be energetic, comfortable speaking with the public, in good health, able to climb stairs and be on duty 8 to 9 hours per day with breaks. There is a program fee of $195.00 per person per week.

All participants are asked to become members of GTLM (Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum), the organization that facilitates the lighthouse being open to the public.  The GTLM is a 501C3 non profit and all funds collected go directly to maintaining and preserving this historic site.  For one year a single membership is $20.00, a family membership is $30.00.  Benefits include quarterly newsletters, Gift Shop discounts, and free admission for family and guests.

Spring is an especially lovely time to stay at the lighthouse.  Located on one of the migration routes it is a spectacular place for bird watching.  It is also blossom time on the Leelanau Peninsula.  The summer crowds have yet to arrive and everything is fresh and green.

Keeping the light makes you part of the rich history of the lighthouse, your contribution to the restoration and preservation of an irreplaceable part of Michigan’s maritime past.  This light couldn’t shine without you.

For more information, an application and a handbook, please contact Lisa Drummond at the GTLM office at (231) 386-7195, or progcoor@triton.net.