The Outposts

The Outposts

Racine Reef Lighthouse Racine, Wisconsin Lake Michigan As if the unpredictable and furious storms that can rise up on the Great Lakes isn't enough, the rock-ridden reefs of their western coasts challenge even the best of sailors. Marking these dangerous reefs with lighthouses built like island outposts did provide the much-needed navigational assistance. As they could not leave their posts, the keepers who lived in these types of light stations relied upon boats known as "tenders" to bring them fresh food, supplies, and news of the mainland. The manned Victorian-style lighthouse seen here was built in 1906 and stood about a mile offshore from Racine, Wisconsin to guide sailors away from a treacherous reef. Vulnerable to the constant pounding of waves, tons of loose stones, called riprap, would be poured periodically around the crib to prevent erosion. No longer an outpost, this lighthouse was taken down in 1961 and replaced with an automated, pre-fabricated structure. Given the existing reef and stony waters that still surround this light, the area is a favorite among fishermen.

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