Gazing out at the endless expanse of Lake Michigan, can you imagine the thrill of seeing the Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light emerge from the mist? This beacon, also known as the Milwaukee Breakwater Light, stands proudly on the south end of the north breakwater, a sentinel against the volatile moods of the lake. Let’s delve into the captivating story of this sturdy structure. The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light, completed in 1926, replaced an earlier light from the 1890s. It marked a crucial step in Milwaukee’s maritime history, signifying the growth and importance of the harbor. This lighthouse, one of the last fully enclosed breakwater lighthouses on the Great Lakes, isn’t just a light; it’s a testament to human ingenuity and resilience against the forces of nature. The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light stands on a robust concrete pier, more than 20 feet above the lake’s surface. Its steel frame, clad in 1/4 inch steel plates, is a symbol of strength. The tower itself rises 53 feet, topped by a round, cast-iron lantern room with intricate helical astragals. Originally painted red, the Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light now stands in stark white, its black lantern and parapet adding a striking contrast. Imagine the lighthouse keepers, responsible not only for this light but for all the harbor lights, braving the treacherous waters to maintain this vital beacon. They serviced the original fourth-order Fresnel lens, transferred from the Milwaukee Pierhead Light in 1926. This lens, a marvel of engineering, amplified the light, making it visible for 14 nautical miles. The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light isn’t just a structure; it’s a living embodiment of maritime history. It has witnessed countless ships navigate the often-turbulent waters of Lake Michigan, guiding them safely to port. While no longer manned, the light continues its duty, automated since 1966 and converted to solar power in 2008. The Farwell Avenue Breakwater Light stands as a symbol of Milwaukee’s rich maritime heritage, a beacon of hope and safety for all who sail these waters.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to