Paulding Light – Bruce Crossing, Michigan - Atlas Obscura

Paulding Light

Bruce Crossing, Michigan

A mysterious light in the wood, rumoured to be the the ghost of a railroad brakeman. 

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At one time, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not offered in excess of $100,000 to the person or persons who could solve a bizarre light phenomenon in Paulding, Michigan.

Nearly every clear evening, strange circular spheres of light dance on the horizon of the tiny community, and at one point seem to follow the pathway of electrical lines.

The lights have been captured on film by Michigan Magazine and Channel Six News out of Marquette. Experts from Ripley’s have been to the location to examine the phenomenon.

At the location of the Paulding lights, the Michigan Forest service has put up signs which indicate the best area from which the lights can be seen. So far, no logical conclusions have been reached. The lights have been witnessed as being red, white and green. These lights are not to be confused with the Northern Lights. They are a phenomenon that is unique to Paulding, Michigan.

Locals say the lights have been viewed for a long time and eye witnesses claim to have seen the lights way back at the turn of the century, while on their way to the train depot at Watersmeet. Some locals attest to the fact that the lights start over Lake Superior and make their way inland.

Various legends have developed concerning the lights. One myth explains the lights as the ghost of a railroad brakeman, while other say it is the ghost of an Indian dancing on the power lines.

Know Before You Go

Take State Highway 45 north out of Watersmeet Michigan. About 5 miles out of Watersmeet, the road will begin a slow bend to the right. Watch for a road on the left side of 45 named "Robbins Pond Road" (old state hwy 45), there is usually a brown park sign right before, turn left on Robbins Pond Road.
Follow the gravel road down about 3/8 mile until you see the dead end
barricade shown above.
During the summer months you will also see the sign put up by the
National Park Service.

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