Old Baileys Harbor Bird Cage Lighthouse WI
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Description: The Old Baileys Harbor Birdcage Lighthouse, located in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, is a unique and historic lighthouse that stands out for its distinct architectural design. The lighthouse was first constructed in 1852, making it one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in Wisconsin. The name "Birdcage Lighthouse" comes from its unusual structure. Instead of the traditional cylindrical or conical tower design, the lighthouse features a birdcage-like wooden structure with four sides and a pointed roof. This design allowed for more light to be emitted from the lantern room, making it more visible to ships at sea. The lighthouse originally used a fixed white light to guide mariners safely through the waters of Lake Michigan and mark the entrance to Baileys Harbor. Over the years, the lighthouse underwent several renovations and improvements, including the installation of a Fourth Order Fresnel lens. The lantern room at the top of the lighthouse housed the powerful Fresnel lens, which projected the light in a specific pattern, helping sailors identify the lighthouse from other coastal lights. The lens was eventually replaced with a modern optic system, and the lighthouse was automated in the mid-20th century. Today, the Old Baileys Harbor Birdcage Lighthouse is open to the public for tours and visits. It is maintained and preserved as a historic landmark, providing visitors with a glimpse into the maritime heritage of the region. The lighthouse offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding landscape, making it a popular attraction for tourists and history enthusiasts alike. As one of the few remaining birdcage-style lighthouses in the United States, the Old Baileys Harbor Birdcage Lighthouse holds significant historical and architectural value and serves as a reminder of the important role lighthouses played in ensuring the safety of sailors and guiding them on their journeys across the Great Lakes.