Bailey's Harbor, WI

Photographer: Marcia Adamski

Bailey's Harbor Range

Door Peninsula, WI

Built : 1869

Type : Square/Integral

Status : Inactive

Location : Door County, WI., part of Ridges Wildlife Sanctuary.

Height : Front - 21 feet Rear - 35 feet

Access : Front Range - Car, with parking near the Light.

Directions : At the intersection of Hwy. 57 and Ridges Rd., head East on Ridges road approx. 1/4 mile to the Front Range light. it will be on the left. Behind the Front Range light is a public trail that will lead you to a decent view of the Rear Range light. Note: It is a private residence so please respect their privacy.

History of the Light : This light station was first established in 1853. The range lights were completed and first lit in 1869. Both range lights are constructed of wood standing on a fieldstone foundations. The Rear Range light is a square tower integral with the keeper's dwelling. It is positioned approximately 1,000 feet behind the Front Range light. It's tower stands 35 feet in height with a range of 11 miles. The Front Range light is of an octagonal shape. It stands 21 feet high with a Fifth Order Fresnel lens and a range of 11 miles. Original markings were white with black trim. They are constructed almost identical to the Presque Isle Harbor lights on Lake Huron at a total cost of $6,000.

From 1930 through 1955, Lutheran Pastors used the Rear Range light as parsonage. Both lights were maintained by them in exchange for use of the land. At the time of this agreement, the lights were automated, minimizing the tasks involved. The lights were deactivated in the 1960's and are no longer in service.