Wind Point Lighthouse, Wisconsin
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History of Wind Point Lighthouse, Wisconsin
To the casual observer, there might seem to be major differences between navigating an ocean and a large lake. But from the point of view of a Great Lakes mariner, these large bodies of water present all of the difficulties that are encountered on the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as the gulf coasts. A stormy night on Lake Michigan or Lake Superior, especially as ice develops during the colder months, can test the nerves of the most experienced sailor. As the population and commerce of the Great Lakes region began to multiply in the early part of the nineteenth century, the need for serious navigational aids became quite apparent. Coastal lights, harbor lights, channel lights and even lightships soon became a familiar sight.
Lake Michigan with coastal borders on four states saw particularly rapid growth, especially in the Chicago - Milwaukee area. A few miles south of Milwaukee, and less than 50 miles north of the "Windy City," the lakeside town of Racine, Wisconsin prospered along with the rest of the region. As the town flourished, fishing boats and other commercial craft became frequent visitors of Racine Harbor. In 1880 the Lighthouse Board made the wise decision to build a lighthouse, just north of the city, to safely guide southbound vessels into the harbor.
When the appropriately named Wind Point Lighthouse was finally completed, a third order Fresnel lens was placed in the light room of the solid brick tower. The flashing white light, 108 feet above lake level, could be seen by mariners for miles in all directions. A charming, one story keeper’s dwelling was attached to the tower by a short passageway. The front of the building is actually quite elaborate with a breathtaking view of the lake. Surrounding grounds were lovingly tended over the years by the keepers’ families. On the rear side of the house, lovely flower gardens were planted with blue iris, red and yellow colored gaillardia, and other perennials.
As time passed, several important changes were made to improve the performance of the light station. Although considered modern in its early days, the lens was eventually replaced by a more effective aero beacon. In 1900, to aid navigation during periods of low visibility, the Lighthouse Board added a fog signal. Today the light is automated but remains as important as ever. The tower is currently painted white, with the Italianate supports, lantern, and watch room painted a contrasting black. While the tower is no longer open to the public, visitors are encouraged to walk around the beautiful grounds and experience a part of history.