Sand Island Light, Historic lighthouse on Sand Island, Lake Superior, Wisconsin, US
Sand Island Light is a lighthouse on an island in Lake Superior off the Wisconsin coast, featuring an octagonal tower joined to a two-story residential building. The structure was constructed entirely from brown sandstone quarried from the surrounding promontory.
Construction began in 1881 after congressional funding was approved, and the light began operating that same year. The project introduced a new building method for lighthouses in the Great Lakes region using locally sourced stone.
The building displays Gothic Revival features and incorporates local sandstone in its construction, giving it a distinctive appearance among similar structures in the region. The style reflects how builders adapted their methods to the materials available on this island.
The island is only accessible by private boat or kayak, so arrange water transportation in advance if you plan to visit. Be prepared for changing weather conditions typical of the open lake environment.
Keeper Charles Lederle carried out a daring rescue in 1885 when he rowed through rough waves to reach the burning steamship Prussia. This courageous act remains part of the station's notable history.
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