Raspberry Island Light facts for kids
 |
|
 Raspberry Island Light
Location in Wisconsin
|
|
| Location | Raspberry Island, Wisconsin |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 46°58′13.2″N 90°48′17.47″W / 46.970333°N 90.8048528°W |
| Year first lit | 1862 |
| Automated | 1947 |
| Foundation | Stone |
| Construction | Wood |
| Tower shape | Square, attached white bldg. w/red roof |
| Markings / pattern | white w/black trim & lantern |
| Height | 43 feet (13 m) |
| Focal height | 77 feet (23 m) |
| Original lens | Fifth order Fresnel lens |
| Range | 7 nautical miles (13 km; 8.1 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fl W 2.5s |
| ARLHS number | USA-688 |
| USCG number | 7-15555 |
The Raspberry Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse found on the southern part of Raspberry Island. It helps guide boats through the western channel of the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior. This important landmark is located in Bayfield County, Wisconsin, close to the city of Bayfield. The lighthouse was first lit in 1862.
Contents
A Look Back: History of the Lighthouse
Building the Lighthouse
The Raspberry Island Lighthouse is special because it's one of the few old wooden lighthouses still standing on Lake Superior. The lighthouse building includes a square tower that rises from the keeper's living area. There's also a brick building for the fog signal, a barn, an oil house, a boathouse, two outhouses, and a dock.
Modern Changes and Protection
In 1947, the lighthouse became "automated." This means it no longer needed a person to operate it. Later, it became part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, managed by the National Park Service.
The lighthouse is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1977. This means it's recognized as an important historical site. The original Fresnel lens, which is a special type of lens that makes the light very bright, is now on display at the Madeline Island Historical Museum.
How the Light Works Today
The old battery system in the fog signal building was replaced with a modern, solar-powered light. This new light uses a special plastic lens and continues to guide boats today. The light flashes white every 2.5 seconds, helping ships navigate safely.
-
USCG archive photo
-
1940s overview of the Raspberry Island Light Station
-
Raspberry Island Light Station from Lake Superior
Visiting the Raspberry Island Lighthouse
You can see most of the Apostle Islands lighthouses from a boat tour or your own private boat during the summer. There's also a special ferry tour during the Annual Apostle Island Lighthouse Celebration. During the tourist season, park rangers are on Raspberry Island to welcome visitors and share information about the lighthouse.
