For more than a century, lighthouses have guided navigators through the waters of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. Today, these historic lighthouses are a traveler's treasure. Eight of the majestic structures are still standing in Wisconsin as rich pieces of the state's maritime history.
Built as the "Showplace of the Apostle Islands" to help mark the entrance to the new port of Bayfield, the Raspberry Island Lighthouse was lit in July of 1863. During its days of service, the majestic red and white Civil War-era lighthouse was well known for its beautiful flower gardens, which were cared for by the keepers' families. The final family left when the station was automated in 1947. Excursion boats visit the island daily from mid-June through Labor Day, with tours of the lighthouse provided by national park rangers. Visitors can get a close-up look at the lighthouse's original lens at the Wisconsin State Historical Society on Madeline Island.
Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful lighthouses built on the Great Lakes, Sand Island Lighthouse was occupied for a shorter period of time than any of the other lighthouses in the archipelago. Built in 1881, Sand Island was one of the first lighthouses to be automated in 1921. The 44-foot tower and gothic-style lighthouse were built from locally quarried brownstone. Excursion boats visit the island daily mid-June through Labor Day, with tours of the lighthouse provided by national park volunteers.
The final jewel in the Apostle Islands' necklace of lights was added in 1891, with construction of Devil's Island Lighthouse. The 82-foot tower and two Queen Anne-style keepers' dwellings can be viewed May through September. Devil's Island has a dock at its south end and a rock landing near the lighthouse, which is accessible by boats in calm weather.
Other lighthouses that make up the Apostle Islands chain include Michigan Island (1857), LaPointe Light on Long Island (1895) and Outer Island Lighthouse (1874).
For more information on the Apostle Islands' collection of lighthouses, visit www.nps.gov/apis/table.htm.