Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse | Green Bay

The Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse is a historic and iconic maritime landmark located at the end of the south pier on Lake Michigan in Kewaunee, Wisconsin. It serves as a navigational aid marking the entrance to Kewaunee Harbor, guiding ships safely through the harbor channel. This lighthouse is not only functional but also holds significant historical and architectural value, representing over a century of maritime history in the region.

Historical Background

The first navigational light in Kewaunee was established in 1889 on the north pier. The current Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse structure originated as a fog signal building constructed in 1912. This building was later converted into a lighthouse in 1931 by adding a tower and lantern room, creating the distinctive structure visible today.

Automation of the lighthouse took place in 1981, eliminating the need for a resident lighthouse keeper, though the light and fog signal remain maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard. Recognizing its historical significance, the lighthouse and its associated pier were added to the National and State Registers of Historic Places in 2022, a testament to their importance in regional commerce and maritime navigation.

Architectural and Structural Features

Design: The lighthouse is a square-shaped structure constructed with steel and brick, topped with a wood-frame upper portion. This combination reflects early 20th-century lighthouse construction techniques, emphasizing durability and functionality.

Height: Standing approximately 43 feet tall, the lighthouse’s elevated position provides excellent visibility for vessels navigating Lake Michigan.

Lighting Equipment: Originally, the lighthouse utilized a fifth-order Fresnel lens, an intricate and highly efficient optical system that enhanced the light’s reach. In 2019, this was replaced with a modern Vega Industries VLB-44 LED light, offering greater reliability and lower maintenance. The original Fresnel lens is preserved and displayed at the Kewaunee County History Center for public viewing.

Location and Access

The lighthouse is situated at the terminus of the south pier, extending approximately a quarter-mile into Lake Michigan. Visitors can access it via a walk along the pier, which offers scenic views of the lake and harbor. The walk itself is a popular activity, providing opportunities for photography, bird watching, and enjoying the lakeside atmosphere. However, the pier and lighthouse are not handicap accessible, and visitors should be prepared for uneven surfaces and changing weather conditions. Restroom facilities are not available on the pier or at the lighthouse.

Tours, Events, and Public Engagement

The Friends of the Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse, a nonprofit group dedicated to preserving and promoting the lighthouse, organize public tours and special events during the warmer months. These tours provide an opportunity for visitors to learn about the lighthouse’s history, architecture, and role in maritime safety.

Public tours typically run from late spring through early fall, usually from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on selected dates.

Donations are requested to support maintenance and educational activities, with suggested amounts around $5 for adults and $3 for children.

Private tours are available for groups, with a modest donation fee and advance booking required.

Occasionally, special events such as fog signal demonstrations and harbor walking tours are held, offering unique insights into maritime navigation and local history.

Restoration and Preservation Efforts

The City of Kewaunee took ownership of the lighthouse in 2011 and has since made significant strides in restoring and stabilizing the structure:

In 2015, a $4.2 million grant was awarded to assist with harbor repairs and initial lighthouse stabilization.

Restoration efforts in 2017 included replacing the aging asphalt roof with a durable metal roof, repairing or replacing deteriorated wood components, and installing new storm windows to protect the interior.

Ongoing restoration work aims to address the lighthouse’s interior and further preserve the structure to ensure its longevity as a historic landmark.

These efforts reflect the community’s commitment to maintaining the lighthouse as a symbol of Kewaunee’s maritime heritage and as an educational resource for future generations.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to the Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse enjoy a combination of historic ambiance and natural beauty. The pier walk offers panoramic views of Lake Michigan, including opportunities to watch boats and ships entering and leaving the harbor. The lighthouse itself, though modest in size, stands as a striking beacon against the lakeside sky and is a favorite subject for photographers and history enthusiasts.

While the lighthouse interior is accessible during tours, visitors should plan accordingly for weather and terrain, as the pier is exposed and can be slippery or windy.

Summary

The Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse is a vital piece of Wisconsin’s Great Lakes maritime history. Its blend of historical architecture, scenic location, and community-driven preservation efforts make it a compelling destination for visitors interested in lighthouses, nautical heritage, or lakeside exploration. The lighthouse continues to function as an active aid to navigation while serving as a cherished cultural landmark in Kewaunee.