Wilson Avenue Crib Lighthouse

The Wilson Avenue Crib Lighthouse is located on Montrose Breakwater in Chicago, Illinois.

History

• The construction began in 1884 and was completed by 1885.

Architecture

The lighthouse stands at a height of approximately 30 meters (98 feet) above the breakwater, with a focal height of about 45 meters (148 feet).

The lighthouse features a distinctive cylindrical tower made of cast iron, topped with a lantern room containing a Fresnel lens.

The lighthouse is designed in the typical style of the period, with a square base and a tapering shape towards the top.

Light Characteristics

The Wilson Avenue Crib Lighthouse emits a fixed red light, visible from a distance of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

The light pattern is not specified, but it is believed to be a rotating beam.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation has been automated.

It continues to serve as a vital navigational aid for mariners in the Chicago Harbor.

Location and Accessibility

The Wilson Avenue Crib Lighthouse is situated on Montrose Breakwater, located at the mouth of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois.

The lighthouse is accessible by road, with parking available nearby.

Visitors can view the lighthouse from a short distance away, but access to the tower itself is restricted.

Heritage Status

The Wilson Avenue Crib Lighthouse has been designated as a historic landmark, recognized for its architectural and historical significance in the development of navigation aids in Chicago Harbor.

Notable Historical Events

The Wilson Avenue Crib Lighthouse played an important role in the maritime history of Chicago, serving as a vital aid to navigation during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.