Sand Island Lighthouse

The Sand Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Sand Island in Lake Superior, off the coast of Wisconsin, United States.

History

• The Sand Island Lighthouse was constructed in 1858 by the U.S. Lighthouse Service to serve as an aid to navigation for mariners traversing the treacherous waters of Lake Superior.
• The lighthouse has played a crucial role in maritime safety and commerce, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Architecture

The Sand Island Lighthouse is a classic example of a U.S. Lighthouse Service structure, characterized by its distinctive square tower with a rotating Fresnel lens.

• The lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 13 meters (43 feet) above the lake's surface, while its focal height reaches 60 meters (197 feet).
• The tower is constructed from local limestone and features a distinctive black-and-white striped paint scheme.

Light Characteristics

The Sand Island Lighthouse emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen for up to 7 nautical miles.

• The lighthouse operates on a rotating Fresnel lens, which produces a characteristic "Fl" pattern in the light's rotation.
• This unique pattern is an important aid to navigation for mariners.

Current Status

The Sand Island Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since 1969.

• The U.S. Coast Guard continues to monitor the lighthouse and perform routine maintenance to ensure its continued operation.

Location and Accessibility

The Sand Island Lighthouse is situated on a small island in Lake Superior, accessible only by boat or via a short hike from the nearby town of Bayfield.

• Visitors can explore the lighthouse and surrounding area with permission from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Heritage Status

The Sand Island Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1997, recognizing its significance as an important aid to navigation and maritime safety.

• The lighthouse is also a protected site under the National Park Service's Lake Superior National Marine Sanctuary.

Notable Historical Events

• In 1870, a major storm damaged the lighthouse, leading to significant repairs and upgrades.
• During World War II, the Sand Island Lighthouse played an important role in the war effort, serving as a navigation aid for Allied ships.
• In recent years, the U.S. Coast Guard has undertaken extensive restoration work on the lighthouse to ensure its continued operation and preservation.