Kenosha Light
5117 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53140, USA
Name and Location
Kenosha Light is located at 5117 4th Avenue, Kenosha, WI 53140, USA, situated on Lake Michigan's shoreline.
Construction and History
The Kenosha Light was built in 1866 to guide ships navigating the treacherous waters of Lake Michigan. It was one of the first lighthouses built on the Great Lakes and played a vital role as an aid to navigation. In 1990, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) for its historical significance.
Architecture and Materials
The Kenosha Light is a cylindrical tower with a height of approximately 70 feet and a diameter of about 18 feet. The tower is made of brick with a brownstone base providing a sturdy foundation. The lantern room sits atop the tower, housing the original First Order Fresnel lens. The building's design is reminiscent of other 19th-century lighthouses along the Great Lakes' shoreline.
Light and Navigation
The Kenosha Light features a distinctive architectural style characterized by its cylindrical shape and rusticated stone base. Originally equipped with a First Order Fresnel lens, it provided a bright, focused beam to illuminate the surrounding waters.
Accessibility and Visiting
Today, the Kenosha Light has been converted into a museum and education center, managed by the Kenosha Historical Society. Visitors can explore the tower and learn about its rich history through exhibits and interactive displays.
Notable Views and Landscape
The Kenosha Light is situated on Lake Michigan's shoreline, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Technical and Operational Details
Further Information
- National Register of Historic Places: Kenosha Light Station (1990)
- Kenosha History Center: Kenosha Light
- Wikipedia: Kenosha Light
Details
Name | Kenosha Light |
---|---|
City | Kenosha |
Country | Usa |
Coordinates | 42.5894571, -87.815707 |
Website | https://kenoshahistorycenter.org/lightstation.html |
Year of construction | 1866 |
Historic significance | role in maritime history and as a vital aid to navigation |
Stories | symbol of Kenosha's maritime heritage |
Architectural style | cylindrical with rusticated stone base |
Construction material | brick |
Tower height | 70 |
Heritage status | true |
Renovations | major restoration project in the late 1990s |
Accessible | true |
Landscape type | coastal |
View description | Lake Michigan's shoreline |
Guided tours | true |
Facilities | toilets, café, gift shop |
Opening hours | null |
Nearby attractions | Kenosha History Center |
Automated | false |