Raspberry Island Light

Raspberry Island Light is a wooden lighthouse located on an island in the western channel of Lake Superior, featuring a square tower with a red roof and an attached keeper's building. The structure stands approximately 43 feet tall and served as a navigational aid for ships passing through these waters.

The lighthouse began operations in 1863 after receiving a French-made Fresnel lens, with support from Henry Rice, a St. Paul politician who founded Bayfield. The installation of this lens marked a turning point for safe navigation in this part of Lake Superior.

The Wisconsin State Historical Society Museum on Madeline Island displays the original Fresnel lens that guided ships through Lake Superior until 1957.

The site is accessible only during summer months via water taxi service from mainland Wisconsin or by private boat. The island is not reachable on foot from shore, so arranging transportation in advance is necessary for a visit.

A coal-fired steam whistle fog signal was installed in 1903 and required two assistant keepers to operate as shipping traffic increased in the region. This system represented a technological advancement for the time and reflected the growing importance of this shipping route.

Location: Bayfield County

Part of: Apostle Islands Lighthouses

GPS coordinates: 46.97060,-90.80500

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:01