Discover the Lighthouses of Northeastern Wisconsin

Many harbor towns along Lake Michigan are proud of their lighthouses, and the communities of Manitowoc, Two Rivers, Kewaunee, Algoma, Sturgeon Bay and Door County are home to some magnificent lighthouses. They are fascinating to tour, as each one is different and has unique characteristics. To read about each one gives you insight on their historical significance to the area…and their importance in maritime navigation.

Manitowoc’s Breakwater Light

Manitowoc’s Breakwater Light is the first structure you see as you enter Manitowoc’s harbor, the Wisconsin port of the S.S. Badger carferry…which sails from Ludington, Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin every May-October. The Manitowoc Breakwater Light, located at the mouth of the Manitowoc River, is a 52 foot steel tower set upon a 22 foot by 48 foot concrete base. The present light was built in 1918, replacing earlier lights built in 1840 and 1895. The lens now used is a Fifth Order Fresnel, which replaced the Fourth Order Fresnel from 1918. You can view the lighthouse from the breakwater but the structure itself is not open to the public.

Algoma Pierhead Lighthouse

The Algoma Pierhead Lighthouse, also known as Algoma Light, is a red, steel structure overlooking Lake Michigan. It stands 42 feet tall and is accessible from Lake Street. The grounds are open to the public but the tower is closed. This lighthouse became operational in 1893…and stood at 35 feet with a 400′ elevated walkway. In 1932 the lighthouse was relocated to its present location during a $100,000 harbor improvement project.

Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse

The Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse is located in Kewaunee, Wisconsin…halfway between Sturgeon Bay and Manitowoc along Lake Michigan. The attractive square tower is identical to the Holland Harbor Lighthouse, but is white in color with a red roof as opposed to Holland’s red tower. The two-story building is 40 feet long and 15 feet wide. The City of Kewaunee is in charge of the lighthouse, which, like most lighthouses, has undergone many changes over the years. More information about Wisconsin Lighthouses will be added very soon. Please check back again later.