Kenosha Light facts for kids
 |
|
| Kenosha (Southport) lighthouse (NRHP) | |
 Kenosha (Southport) Light
Location in Wisconsin
|
|
| Location | Simmons Island, Kenosha, Wisconsin |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 42°35′22″N 87°48′57″W / 42.58944°N 87.81583°W |
| Year first constructed | 1866 |
| Year first lit | 1866 |
| Automated | 1996 |
| Deactivated | 1906-1996 |
| Foundation | Stone |
| Construction | Milwaukee "Cream City brick" w/Mortar coat |
| Tower shape | Conical |
| Markings / pattern | natural, green lantern |
| Height | 55 feet (17 m) |
| Focal height | 76 feet (23 m) |
| Original lens | Fourth order Fresnel lens |
| Current lens | 12 in (300 mm) Tideland Signal ML-300 acrylic plastic lens |
| ARLHS number | USA-912 |
The Kenosha Light (also known as the Southport Light) is a historic lighthouse located on Simmons Island in Kenosha, Wisconsin. It stands proudly near the entrance to Kenosha's harbor in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, USA. This important landmark also includes a house where the lighthouse keeper used to live.
Contents
History of the Kenosha Lighthouse
The Kenosha Light, sometimes called the "Old Kenosha Light," was built in 1866. It was meant to guide ships safely into Kenosha's harbor. This lighthouse replaced two older ones that stood in the same spot, built in 1848 and 1858.
The lighthouse was originally very important. It was the first light sailors would see when entering Wisconsin from the Chicago area. The tower itself is about 55 feet (17 m) tall. Because it sits on a hill, its light shone from 74 feet (23 m) above the lake.
Changes Over Time
The Kenosha Light was active until 1906. At that time, a new lighthouse, the Kenosha North Pier Light, took over its job. Even though the light was turned off, the keeper's house continued to be used for many years.
In 1913, the top part of the lighthouse, called the lantern room, was removed. It wasn't put back until 1994. The original lens, a special type called a Fresnel lens, was also replaced. Today, it uses a modern plastic lens.
The Keeper's House and Its Design
Right next to the lighthouse tower is the house where the keeper and their family lived. The first part of this house was built in 1866, at the same time as the lighthouse. It was a two-story building made of "Cream City brick," just like the tower.
In 1907, more sections were added to the house. This included a two-story porch. These additions made the house larger and more comfortable for the keeper's family.
Kenosha's Port and the Lighthouse's Role
The Kenosha Light was part of a big plan to make Kenosha a major shipping port. From the 1830s to the 1880s, a lot of money was spent on things like the lighthouse. However, this lighthouse was a bit too far from the harbor entrance to be perfect for guiding ships. So, another light was added directly on the pier in the 1860s.
Eventually, other cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Racine became bigger shipping centers. They had better harbors and more railroad connections. Kenosha became a smaller port, but its lighthouse remained an important part of its history.
National Recognition
The Kenosha Light is a very important historical site. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Kenosha Light Station. This means it's recognized for its historical value. It has been an active aid to navigation again since 1996, meaning its light helps guide boats once more.
Visiting the Kenosha Lighthouse
The City of Kenosha and the Kenosha County Historical Society now take care of the lighthouse and keeper's house.
The keeper's house is open to visitors on Saturdays and Sundays during the warmer tourist season. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even climb the lighthouse tower on many summer weekends. It's a great way to see the views and learn more about this historic building.
You can easily spot the lighthouse in Kenosha. It's located near the area of 50th Street and 4th Avenue.
