“Nothing indicates the liberality, prosperity or intelligence of a nation more clearly than the facilities which it affords for the safe approach of the mariner to its shores.”—United States Lighthouse Board Report, 1868
Lighthouses stand as symbols of a bygone, simpler era. The days of the staffed lighthouse are gone forever. Devoted keepers have been replaced by modern technology. Scientific and technological advances in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries reduced the status of many of these treasured guardians of navigation to lonely landmarks. Once-proud lights have given way to highly efficient but impersonal beacons. The proficient, cost-saving structures of today certainly lack the charm and human presence of their predecessors.
Nevertheless, these sentinels of safety continue to have historic as well as scenic and cultural significance. Wisconsin’s lighthouses are indelibly linked with the state’s history through their considerable contribution to our maritime traditions. Years ago hundreds of courageous men and women and their families faithfully carried out their sometimes lonely and dangerous duties, and countless seafarers have them to thank for their loyalty.
Many of today’s remaining lighthouses are at the mercy of the elements and are vulnerable to deterioration and vandalism. In most cases, the US Coast Guard maintains only the lights themselves, not the buildings or surrounding grounds. Some are in dire need of human intervention to save them from becoming only memories. We were surprised and dismayed at the number of lights we visited over the years that had fallen on hard times. Several lighthouses were in various stages of ruin, were overgrown, or had significant graffiti. Thankfully that is slowly changing for the better at a number of them. Success stories are plentiful.
The reasons to preserve Wisconsin’s lighthouses are compelling. Along with their historical significance, lighthouses possess great potential for future use. Restored lighthouses not only provide educational opportunities but also can generate revenue as tourist attractions for communities. Admission fees sometimes provide needed funds for lighthouse upkeep. Nationally, lighthouses have been successfully transformed into museums, bed-and-breakfasts, conference and nature centers, and educational and recreational facilities and have become part of various park systems. Funding is critical to ensure their continued existence. Fortunately, the automation, mothballing, and abandonment of many of our majestic lighthouses has actually allowed the public to view and learn more of their histories. Many lighthouses around the country, including several in Wisconsin, have been converted into living history museums that offer tours and glimpses into the past.
Sunrise at Algoma North Pierhead Light
Success stories of lighthouse preservation efforts in Wisconsin include the Apostle Islands, Grassy Island Range Lights, Chambers Island, Eagle Bluff, Pottawatomie, Cana Island, Baileys Harbor Range Lights, Two Rivers North Pierhead, Old Port Washington, North Point Milwaukee, Wind Point, Racine North Breakwater, and Southport (Kenosha). Discussions continue about the future of several other beacons. The federal government, historical societies, museums, private citizens, and friends groups have played vital roles in lighthouse preservation and restoration. Leasing lights from the Coast Guard has worked well in many instances.
Wisconsin is known for its stewardship, and there is usually high local support for surplus Wisconsin lights. The tireless grassroots efforts of these dedicated folks ensure the survival of many lighthouses. Without their hours of dedication to the cause of lighthouse conservation, many of these beacons would be in serious danger of losing the battle against time and the elements. Preserved and renovated lighthouses are a tribute to the determination of these citizens. The fate of smaller, more remote, lesser known lights, however, is not as clear.
The primary purpose of lighthouses remains unchanged. They continue to be valuable, functional aids to navigation, though primarily for smaller, recreational pleasure craft. Modern cargo-carrying vessels possess the most current equipment, including sophisticated satellite technology, to precisely determine their positions and guide their way.
The For Sale sign may not be visible at any Wisconsin lighthouses, but the eventual fate of many will be determined by the federal government’s desire to dispose of these “surplus” properties. The US Coast Guard continues to oversee more than one hundred Great Lakes lighthouses, but it is extremely interested in partnering with those committed to lighthouse preservation and seeks to permanently turn lighthouses over to individuals or groups that are able and willing to preserve and maintain them. Costs associated with lighthouse upkeep are high.
Congress enacted legislation in 2000 meant to promote long-term lighthouse stewardship. The National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act (NHLPA) provides a process for the federal government to remove itself from the business of lighthouses. The act specifies that local communities, government agencies, and qualified nonprofit groups can apply for ownership of a lighthouse deemed by the USCG to be surplus. Then the General Services Administration (GSA) issues a Notice of Availability for lighthouses available for transfer. Next, the National Parks Services (NPS) provides, reviews, and evaluates applications. A suitable applicant is recommended to the GSA if one is found. Finally, the GSA deeds the property to the new owner or sells the property at auction if there is no qualified candidate.
The intent of the NHLPA is to place lighthouses in the hands of good stewards, but the NHLPA process can be lengthy and bureaucratic, especially for small, nonprofit organizations with limited staff, funding, or experience. To qualify for the NHLPA, a lighthouse must be on the National Register of Historic Places or be considered eligible. Despite the rigorous process, scores of people have been relentless in their efforts to safeguard many lights. If you’ve ever thought of “adopting” a lighthouse, with enough resources you could have the opportunity.
May the wind and the wave
Be your friend
May you stand the storm
and the hand of the Lord
Bring you safely to
harbor again.
—Author unknown
Interest in lighthouses has exploded over the past few decades. Many well-known lights have been featured on US postage stamps, in print media, and on television and the Internet. Lighthouse groups celebrate August 7 as an informal National Lighthouse Day, though the date is not officially recognized by the federal government.
In Wisconsin nearly three dozen of these grand structures continue to be functional, still serving their original purpose, signaling vessels to safe port. They add to the enchantment of Wisconsin’s coastlines and provide unique opportunities for lighthouse historians, enthusiasts, artists, photographers, and preservation groups. Many of the lighthouses chronicled here are more than one hundred years old and have performed a vital role in commerce and sea trade. They are worth preserving.
Wisconsin’s motto is “Forward.” It is our hope that the essence of these lights and the dedication that their keepers exhibited will encourage people to preserve as much of this rich maritime heritage as possible. Lighthouses are symbols of vigilance. We have faith that lighthouses will continue to be able to “leave the light on” and illuminate the way. Let us strive to keep their history alive and their lights burning.