Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Lighthouse

Coast Guard Station
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Located at the Coast Guard Station in Sturgeon Bay, the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Lighthouse is close in proximity to the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Lighthouse.

Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Lighthouse History

1898: The lighthouse is built.

1899: The light officially begins to operate.

1900: The tower was repainted and went from reddish brown to white.

1903: A steel framework was built to support the watch room and lantern.

1904: Main dwelling was remodeled to make room for three keepers.

1939: Lighthouse Service was transferred to the Coast Guard.

1972: The lighthouse is automated.

The light design was unique. It is a double walled steel cylinder, 78’ tall, without bracing.
The design of the light created serious problems. The tower would vibrate in the wind so much that it affected the operation of the light.