Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light

The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light is a historic lighthouse located on Loyola Lighthouse Groyne in Chicago, Illinois.

History

• The structure was built to serve as an aid to navigation for mariners entering the city's harbor.

Architecture

The tower of the Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light stands at a height of 55 feet (16.7 meters) above the groyne, with a focal height of 105 feet (32.2 meters).

• The lighthouse features a distinctive square base and a cylindrical body, topped by a lantern room containing a first-order Fresnel lens.

Location

The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light is situated on Loyola Lighthouse Groyne in Chicago's harbor, approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) east of the city's downtown area.

Visiting Information

Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walkway from the nearby Loyola University Lake Shore Campus.

• The structure is not open to the public for tours, but its location makes it an attractive spot for photography and observation.

Current Status

The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation in 1930.

• The lighthouse continues to serve as a vital reference point for mariners navigating the Chicago harbor.

Heritage Status

The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its significance as a historic navigational aid and architectural landmark.

Notable Historical Events

• The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light played an important role in the development of Chicago's harbor during the early 20th century.

The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light is located at coordinates 42.006865° N, 87.6551655° W.