Build by the federal government in 1866, the Kenosha lighthouse replaces two other lighthouses constructed at the same site in 1848 and 1858. Originally designated a coast and harbour light for Southport, now Kenosha, it provided the first navigational illumination a mariner would see upon entering Wisconsin from the Chicago area. Standing 55 feet tall and situated on a hill, the lighthouses projected light from 74 feet above lake level. The lighthouse is build of yellow Milwaukee Cream City Brick and is conical in shape. Originally, the lighthouse contained a fourth order Fresnel lens fueled by kerosine with a fixed-white light which was varied by flashes. Oficially discontinued in 1906, the lantern room was later removed and replaced by a 25-foot tripod
mast for displaying storm warning flags and lights. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1990, the lighthouse has been restored and holds an automated electric light.


ARLHS Number: USA-912
Build: 1866
Construction: brick
Height: 16 m