Discover Porphyry Island: Celebrating 150 Years of History and Beauty
Porphyry Island is situated on the eastern side of the Black Bay Peninsula, 43 km east of Thunder Bay. As a Lightstation, it has a rich history spanning 150 years. Visitors frequently depart from Silver Islet on a charter to access the lighthouse and island. Most arrive via power boat, sailing craft, or kayak.
Amenities on the island include two docks that can accommodate up to 8-foot draft boaters, picnic tables, a fire pit, camping area, sauna, and boathouse wifi. There are several kilometers of walking trails on site, including one that leads you to the point on Porphyry Island that bisects Porphyry Island Provincial Park Nature Reserve.
At the point itself, visitors can find two dwellings, a light tower, fog alarm building, and camping areas, all equipped with new, spacious canvas tents.
When the lighthouse was first constructed in 1873, it was the second lighthouse built on Lake Superior. In the 1960s, further work was done to include a 25m steel tower and a second dwelling. In 1989, the lighthouse went into automatic mode, ending 106 years of lighthouse keeping.
During the summer months, visitors are greeted by CLLS staff, who will be more than happy to show you around, give you a tour, and show you the mini museum, art gallery, and theatre. The site is currently leased from the Department of Fisheries & Oceans, and CLLS welcomes all visitors. Memberships are available, and donations are encouraged.
