Chambers Island Lighthouse

The Chambers Island Lighthouse was constructed in 1858 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering Green Bay.

History

• The lighthouse was built by the United States Lighthouse Board and was designed to provide assistance to vessels navigating the treacherous waters of the Door Peninsula.
• The lighthouse features a fixed red light that is visible from a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers).

Architecture

The lighthouse stands at a height of approximately 35 feet (10.7 meters) above the base, with a total tower height of about 50 feet (15.2 meters).

The focal height is around 70 feet (21.3 meters), allowing for a visible light to be seen from a distance of several miles.

The lighthouse was constructed using local stone and mortar, with a distinctive square shape and a lantern room at the top.

Light Characteristics

The Chambers Island Lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation, but it remains a popular tourist destination and a notable landmark in the area.

The lighthouse is currently operated as a museum, offering guided tours and educational programs for visitors.

Current Status

The lighthouse is located on Base Line Road, near the town of Gibraltar in Door County, Wisconsin.

The island can be accessed by ferry from the mainland, with regular departures during the summer months.

Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, including the nearby MacKay-See lake.

Heritage Status

The Chambers Island Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered a significant cultural and historical landmark in Wisconsin.

Notable Historical Events

• The lighthouse played an important role during World War II, serving as a training facility for Coast Guard personnel.
• The island also has a rich Native American history, with the indigenous Ke-Che Mab-Ne-Do people having inhabited the area for centuries.