Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Opens Its Doors for an Unforgettable Season

Sturgeon Bay, Wis. (May 15, 2023) – The Door County Historical Society will open the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse for the 2023 season on May 19, 2023. Located in Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is an iconic symbol of our heritage. Built in 1868, the lighthouse stands tall, ready to welcome visitors from near and far to its historic grounds.

The opening day of the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is set for May 19. We look forward to welcoming visitors daily from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Admission fee is $5 per person, Door County Historical Society members, as well as  members of the military, are free. A state park sticker is required for entrance to the park.

Perched majestically atop the rugged cliff overlooking the Strawberry Channel of Green Bay, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse has been an enduring beacon of hope and guidance for over a century and a half. With its rich maritime history and breathtaking views, it serves as a testament to the dedicated keepers who faithfully tended to its light and safeguarded countless lives throughout the years.

This season, the Door County Historical Society invites visitors to explore the marvels of this architectural gem and immerse themselves in the fascinating tales of the past. Here are some highlights of what to expect during your visit:

• Self-Guided Tours: Explore the lighthouse at your own pace, as our knowledgeable docents available through the lighthouse’s storied halls, sharing captivating stories about its history, lighthouse keepers’ lives, and the maritime heritage of our region. Gain a unique perspective as you ascend the spiral staircase to the lantern room, where you’ll witness breathtaking panoramic views.
• Exhibits and Artifacts: Discover an array of exhibits and artifacts that provide a glimpse into the lives and work of the lightkeepers who served the lighthouse from 1868 – 1926. Marvel at the meticulously restored living quarters, complete with authentic period furnishings, and learn about the challenges they faced in maintaining the light that guided ships safely through treacherous waters.
• Educational Programs: The Door County Historical Society is committed to promoting maritime education. We offer several educational programs and workshops for students of all ages throughout the season, encouraging them to explore the rich maritime history and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
• Special Events: Throughout the season, the lighthouse will host a variety of special events, including lighthouse festivals, historical reenactments, and photography exhibitions. Check our website and social media channels for updates on these exciting events.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the grandeur and nostalgia of the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. Join us this season as we celebrate our maritime legacy and create lasting memories on the shores of our beautiful coastal community.

About Eagle Bluff Lighthouse

Constructed in 1868, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is located in Fish Creek, Wisconsin, on the north-western coast of the Door Peninsula. The selection of this site on Lake Michigan’s Green Bay coastline was a strategic position for the navigation of ships through the Strawberry Channel. Built from Milwaukee Cream City brick, the keeper’s residence and light tower are connected by a spiral cast iron staircase. The lighthouse also had a privy, barn, shed, summer kitchen, and an oil house. The original 1900 oil house remains on site.

The site has been in continuous use as a navigational aid since its construction. When the light was automated in 1926, the building was vacated and the site fell quiet for decades. In 1960, the Door County Historical Society signed an agreement with the State of Wisconsin to restore and operate the Lighthouse as a museum. Volunteers led a three-year-long restoration process and the keeper’s residence and light tower opened for public tours in 1963. This early restoration was one of the first on the Great Lakes.

The Door County Historical Society has faithfully managed and maintained the lighthouse every since. This long-term commitment ensures that Eagle Bluff Lighthouse will be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come. The Door County Historical Society is a nonprofit organization and does not receive any financial support from the state for operational purposes.