Our Tour of Rock Island Lighthouse
© by Mark Wentling, 6 October 2001 please read copyright notice
The Lighthouse: Exterior (click on any image to view a full-size version)
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Since 1903, this has been every keeper's view from the front porch of the dwelling house. From this angle, you can practically read the history of the lighthouse in it's architecture—the second window up (the one above the black ring) was once actually the doorway of the original cast iron tower that used to stand at the center of the island. |
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The foundation for the present tower is octagonal in shape and was laid on bedrock in the river. |
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The original door of the lighthouse was wooden and had two small square windows at the top; it offered little protection after the station was deactivated. In recent years, the black metal door you see here was taken from the generator house to and the entrance secured by chain and padlock to deter vandals who did damage to the station during the 1970's and 1980's. |
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NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT: All photographs, text, and electronic files comprising this tour website are the exclusive property of the creator, Mark A. Wentling, and all rights to reproduction are wholly reserved. No part(s) may be reproduced in part or in whole, in any format (print, electronic, or otherwise) for any purpose without prior written consent. To inquire about permission for re-using these materials, please send an email to Mark A. Wentling at keeper@rockislandlighthouse.org |
Visit the Rock Island Lighthouse Historical & Memorial website