Port Washington Light, Lighthouse and Historic Site in Port Washington, Wisconsin, United States.
Port Washington Light is a lighthouse featuring Greek Revival design standing 11 meters tall on Lake Michigan's shore, built with cream city brick in a distinctive architectural style. The site includes the original keeper's residence and museum spaces displaying maritime heritage and navigation history.
The lighthouse was built in 1849 and guided ships on Lake Michigan until it was decommissioned in 1903 after fulfilling its navigational purpose. The structure was later preserved and transformed into a public monument that maintains this maritime history for future generations.
The lighthouse represents the community's bond with Lake Michigan and its maritime past, serving as a gathering place where locals and visitors reflect on the waterfront's role in shaping the town. This connection shapes how people understand their place along the shore.
The site is accessible year-round, with the best visiting season during warmer months when museum exhibitions are fully operational. The waterfront location is easily reached on foot or by car, with nearby parking available for guests exploring the grounds and buildings.
An unexpected connection links this lighthouse to the Luxembourgish community, which donated a replacement tower in 2002 reflecting their immigration heritage in the region. This generous gift demonstrates how the site weaves together different cultures and their shared connection to the waterfront.
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