When people think of America’s most spectacular coastlines, their minds often drift to California’s Pacific shores or Florida’s sunny beaches. But tucked away in the heart of the country lies another treasure: the Great Lakes. Stretching across eight U.S. states and Canada, these vast inland seas boast thousands of miles of shoreline dotted with historic lighthouses, charming towns, and natural wonders. Despite their majesty, the Great Lakes coastlines remain one of America’s best-kept secrets. Jane Moorman’s Great Lakes Lighthouses opens a window to this hidden world, celebrating its beauty through photography and storytelling.
Upon retiring in 2021, Moorman set out to explore her own country, beginning with a road trip along the Great Lakes from Minnesota to the St. Lawrence River. Her journey turned into a personal treasure hunt after she discovered a map of lighthouses. What started as curiosity grew into a mission: finding, photographing, and documenting these structures that once guided sailors to safety. By the end of her month-long adventure, she had visited 101 lighthouses, capturing the character of 70 of them for her book.
What makes the Great Lakes so unique is the combination of natural and cultural history. The lakes themselves are massive, so large they resemble oceans, but their coastlines are full of hidden gems. Lighthouses perched on rocky cliffs or standing guard at quiet harbors tell stories of shipwrecks, commerce, and communities shaped by the water. Moorman’s photographs remind us that each lighthouse is more than a scenic landmark; it is a witness to centuries of human endeavor and resilience.
Unlike crowded coastal destinations, the Great Lakes offer tranquility. Visitors can walk sandy beaches without crowds, explore small towns that retain their character, and enjoy sunsets that rival anything on the Pacific. For photographers and travelers alike, the shifting moods of the lakes, from calm, glassy waters to storm-driven waves, make every visit unique. Moorman captures these contrasts beautifully, showing the lakes as both majestic and deeply personal.
Calling the Great Lakes coastlines America’s best-kept secret isn’t an exaggeration. It’s an invitation. They are places where history meets nature, where lighthouses tell stories in silence, and where the beauty of the water stretches farther than the eye can see.
For those who want to experience this hidden treasure without leaving home, Jane Moorman’s Great Lakes Lighthouses offers the perfect guide. It’s more than a photography book. It’s an invitation to discover the secret coastlines that define America’s heartland.
Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CVMCPL2Z.