This is my "wish list" item. I grew up in Milwaukee, and my Dad's last home was about 3.5 miles from the lighthouse. The light is kind of unique in that it was originally 39-feet tall and later raised by about 35 feet - by building a new base and then putting the old tower and lantern room atop the new base. This was made a bit easier since the tower is bolted cast iron.

The "North Point Lighthouse Friends, Inc." has raised about 2/3 of the funds needed to complete the restoration of this lighthouse and hopes to have the tower and 1888 "Queen Anne" style home open next year. The keeper's quarters won't be restored as a home, but used as a community center - at least in part. There will be artifacts including the original Fresnel lens on display. On a recent visit to Milwaukee, my husband and I were disappointed to see two "Roto Rooter" trucks parked in front of the house (kind of messes up the picture!). The good news is that a caretaker was on site to let the workers in - and she had the key to the tower! The interior of the tower is "sound" but rusty and coated with lead paint.

I think this would be a really cool piece to add to Harbour Lights lineup!
http://www.northpointlighthouse.org

http://www.ngbb.org/images/Southern_Wisconsin/07%20North_Point_Milwaukee5.JPG

It is certainly nice to see that North Point has a Friends group, a nice website, and is on the way to being restored/preserved!

I was a bit shocked at their expectations for donations! Check this out:

http://www.northpointlighthouse.org/restore.html

Wall of Honor

Pinnacle Society: $100,000 and up
Lead/major gifts from corporate, foundation & individual donors. Cumulative totals for each donor from initiation of campaign in 2000 through 2006 will be counted.
Navigator’s Circle: $10,000 to $99,999
Major gift totals are counted cumulatively from 2000 through 2006.
Keepers of the Light: $1,000 to $9,999 annual gifts only

Individual Naming Opportunities

Main Floor Gallery $150,000
Fresnel Lens Display $100,000
Lighthouse “Lantern Room” $100,000
Second Floor Gallery $50,000
West Garden $50,000
Keeper’s Watch Room $50,000
Lobby Area $25,000
East Keeper’s Garden $25,000
Gift Shop $15,000
First Floor Keeper’s Desk $15,000
Tower Portal/Entry $15,000
Lighthouse Landing(s) (4)
$10,000 each
Tower Passageway $10,000
Second Floor Keeper’s Porch $5,000
Special Promotion during Final Campaign Year

Outdoor pavers: $500-$999
Outdoor bricks: $250-$499

Sounds like North Point has a squared away group backing the restoration. Hopefully, Harbour Lights will grant your wish and lend their support.

Bob