SHARE:  

Volume 2, Issue 7 - July 2024

President's Letter

Dear Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse,


As we welcome the warmth and vibrancy of July, I am delighted to connect with you through this edition of our newsletter. The past few months have been filled with significant milestones and exciting developments for the Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse.



First and foremost, we have made remarkable strides in our pursuit of National Historic Landmark status for the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. Our recent article outlines the progress made with the City in obtaining the Owner’s Authorization to apply for this prestigious designation. This recognition will not only honor the lighthouse’s historical significance, but also provide additional protections and opportunities for preservation.

Equally noteworthy is the successful acquisition of a Property Identification Number (PIN) for the lighthouse. This accomplishment, detailed in another article, was a complex and challenging process that required extensive research and collaboration with city officials. With the PIN now in place, we will be able to properly document and pull permits for necessary maintenance and restoration work once we take ownership. This official recognition by Cook County marks a significant milestone in our preservation efforts.


As we look ahead, I am excited to celebrate National Lighthouse Day on August 7th. This day is dedicated to honoring the vital role lighthouses have played in maritime history. Be sure to read the article in this newsletter for more details on National Lighthouse Day in Chicago and celebrate our beloved lighthouse.


In this edition, we also delve into the fun history of the traveling H-L 330 Fresnel Lens. This extraordinary lens, once a crucial part of the lighthouse’s navigational system, has a storied past that reflects the technological advancements and maritime heritage of our nation. Its journey from the lighthouse to various exhibitions and back is a testament to the enduring legacy of these incredible engineering marvels.


I would like to extend a special thank you to the dedicated staff of the City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development and Alderman Brendan Reilly and his office for their steadfast support of our mission. Their advocacy has been instrumental in helping us achieve these milestones, and we are deeply grateful for their continued partnership.


Your support and involvement are the driving forces behind our success. I encourage all members to stay engaged, participate in our upcoming events, and spread the word about our efforts. Together, we can ensure that the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse remains a symbol of our city’s rich maritime history and a beacon of inspiration for future generations.


Be Safe and Be Well.


Regards,


Kurt Lentsch

Chief Dreamer and President, 

Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse


P.S. Please check out our new online store which we are launching today, July 1, 2024! Visit www.SaveTheLighthouse.org/store to purchase some cool FOCHL merchandise.


If you are part of an organization that has an interest in financially supporting our efforts to Preserve, Restore, and Celebrate the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, please reach out to Nick Naber (nicknaber@savethelighthouse.org), our treasurer and a member of our fundraising working group.

DONATE NOW

Even a small donation could help

Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse

reach our fundraising goal.


And if you are unable to make a monetary donation at this time, we ask if you could please share the fundraiser information, to help our cause.

Your contributions enable us to offset the start-up costs for the Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse and begin the preservation and restoration work that is greatly needed on this historic place... We are very grateful for your generosity.


The Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse is a 501c3 organization

so please make a tax-deductible gift to help us Save the Lighthouse!


www.SaveTheLighthouse.org

Milestone Achieved: Chicago Harbor Lighthouse Now Has a Property Identification Number (PIN)

We are thrilled to share an exciting and significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to preserve and maintain the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse: the City of Chicago has successfully obtained a Property Identification Number (PIN) for the lighthouse!


This achievement is a testament to the perseverance and dedication of everyone involved, as the process has proven to be far more complex than initially anticipated. Situated in the middle of the harbor, the lighthouse lacked a traditional street address and a corresponding PIN, presenting unique challenges in documentation and permitting for maintenance and restoration work.


The journey to obtain a PIN for the lighthouse began even before our involvement in 2022. Numerous city departments, maritime experts, and historians were consulted to navigate the intricate requirements and bureaucratic hurdles. The process involved extensive research, detailed mapping, and comprehensive documentation to ensure the lighthouse's accurate and official recognition by Cook County.


Having a PIN is crucial for several reasons:


Documentation and Permitting: The PIN allows for proper documentation and the ability to pull permits necessary for performing restoration or maintenance work on the lighthouse. This ensures that all activities are recorded and conducted in compliance with local regulations.


Official Recognition: With a PIN, the lighthouse is now officially recognized by the County. This recognition not only validates the historical significance of the lighthouse but also strengthens our case for obtaining National Historic Landmark status.


Funding and Grants: Official recognition and the ability to document work through permits open up new opportunities for securing grants and funding. These resources are essential for the continued preservation and restoration of the lighthouse.


The successful acquisition of the PIN is the result of a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders. We extend our deepest gratitude to the City of Chicago, the County, and all the experts and volunteers who contributed their time and expertise to this complex task.



With this important milestone achieved, we are better positioned than ever to move forward with our preservation and restoration projects. The official recognition by the County will enhance our ability to maintain the lighthouse and continue our efforts to achieve National Historic Landmark status.

Progress Report: National Landmark Status for the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse

We are delighted to update you on the progress being made in the journey towards obtaining National Historic Landmark status for our beloved Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. As many of you know, this designation is an honor held by only 12 lighthouses across the United States, underscoring the historical and cultural significance of these maritime sentinels.


Our recent efforts have centered on securing the necessary Owner's Authorization from the City of Chicago, a critical step in the National Landmark status application process. We are pleased to announce that our discussions with city officials have been productive and positive. The City has shown a keen interest in preserving the lighthouse's historical integrity and recognizes its importance as a symbol of Chicago's maritime heritage.


We have worked closely with various city departments to ensure all legal and procedural requirements are met. The City’s support has been instrumental in moving our application forward, and we are grateful for their partnership in this endeavor.


Achieving National Historic Landmark status for the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse will not only honor its historical significance but also provide additional protections and opportunities for preservation. This designation will bring national recognition, increase tourism, and potentially unlock federal grants and funding for ongoing maintenance and restoration projects.


Ted Karamanski, Ph.D. Professor of History and Public History Director at Loyola University Chicago and his team are currently in the process of preparing our application, which incorporates detailed historical research, architectural assessments, and testimonials from historians and maritime experts. The comprehensive documentation highlights the lighthouse’s unique design, its role in Chicago’s development, and its enduring legacy.


Once the application for National Historic Landmark status is submitted, the National Park Service will review it rigorously. We anticipate this process will take several months, and we will keep you informed of any developments.


Celebrated in Two World Fairs, the H-L 330 Fresnel Lens Luckily Landed in Chicago


By Steve Clements


During the 1820s and 1830s, a time of rapid technological advancement, the newly invented Fresnel lens emerged as a revolutionary improvement in lighthouse technology. This was a period when simple open flames and more primitive arrangements of glass lenses and reflectors were the norm in the lantern rooms of lighthouses worldwide. The precisely organized collection of high-quality glass prisms found in a Fresnel lens served to focus the scattered light waves emitted from the light source in the lantern room, directing it into a narrow beam of light visible for far greater distances. This technological leap forward in the effectiveness of lighthouses is said to be the invention that saved a million ships.


As the 19th century progressed, the impact of Fresnel lenses on maritime safety became increasingly evident. Existing lighthouses were refitted with these lenses, upgrading their effectiveness and significantly reducing the risk of shipwrecks. By 1893, when construction of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse was completed, Fresnel lenses were not just an afterthought, but a crucial part of the design demonstrating their integral role in maritime safety.

On a significant evening in Chicago maritime history, November 9th, 1893, just nine days after the closing of the 1893 Chicago World’s Columbian Exposition, the new lantern room at the top of Chicago Harbor Lighthouse was adorned with a Fresnel lens, given the number H-L 330 by its French manufacturer. This lens, a testament to the technological advancements of its time, served faithfully until the mid-1960s when the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse transitioned to more automated systems. The lens was then retired, replaced by a rotating aero beacon, a more practical and less delicate alternative to the glass Fresnel lens.


The intriguing blog post below, reprinted here with the permission of the Cabrillo National Monument, delves deeper into the story of what happened before and after H-L-330 was installed in Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. Read on to discover the many miles the lens traveled on its way to Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, its journey after being retired, and where it is today.


Contemplation of H-L 330

By Karen Scanlon and Kim Fahlen


In custom pine boxes—not unlike primitive coffins—rests a Fresnel lens ordered in the mid-1880s for San Diego’s new lighthouse. But this elusive lighthouse lens, given the number H-L 330 by its Parisian manufacturer, Henry-Lepaute, never served its intended destination. ‘Showman’ par excellence, a misfit, and ultimately discarded as surplus, it appears that H-L 330 was delivered to the West Coast twice!


The U.S. Light House Board of 1882 had begun to act on the realization that the lighthouse on Point Loma, 422 feet above the sea, was dangerous. Fog and low cloud too often obscured its light from ever-increasing maritime activity at San Diego. A lighthouse closer to the sea was urgent, but the government must, then, bear the expense of two new light stations. By March 1891, a harbor light at Ballast Point and a lighthouse at the lower tip of Point Loma (with a focal plane of just 88 feet above sea level) were in operation.


Engineers dealt with frustrations in the acquisition of the illuminating apparatus for the reestablished Point Loma Lighthouse. A 3rd Order lens had been ordered, yet before delivery was made to the U.S. Army Quartermaster’s Depot, New York, it was routed to the World’s Fair at home in Paris.

Evidence that H-L 330 was intended for Point Loma Lighthouse: Note the marble inscription on door of lens pedestal. Check out the prizes earned at the 1889 Paris Exhibition on a second door. These bronze beauties are in our CNM collection



Interestingly, exhibition of the amazing work of glass and bronze of Henry-Lepaute, and its lamp, at Exposition Universelle de 1889 occurred in the shadow of a defining demonstration of French technology, the Eiffel Tower. H-L 330 earned “2 GREAT PRIZES: 1 GOLD MEDAL, 1 BRONZE MEDAL”, as inscribed in marble on its pedestal door.

Look to center of photo, left, mid-way up the wall, just above the heads of men gathered, you will see lens H-L 330 exhibited in the Mining Building of Chicago’s 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Note the primitive fire hose in left foreground.

In January 1890, Engineer Heap of the 3rd Light House District, New York, notes that he received the Point Loma lens (H-L-330) from France and that funds were forthcoming to pay for it. On June 28 of the same year, Engineer Heuer of the 12th Light House District, San Francisco, requested shipment of that lens. By August 22, it was on its way by steamer.


Meanwhile, in July, ironwork for Point Loma’s leggy tower rolled into San Diego from Trenton, New Jersey on flatcars of California Southern Railroad. Thirty-seven and one-half tons were hauled on “strong wagons” out to the Point, where a concrete block 25 feet square and 14 feet deep was waiting to support the new lighthouse. But months would pass before an operational lens was fitted in the tower.


According to the San Diego Union, October 19, the superintendent of lighthouse repairs and his assistant arrived “to place the lens in the skeleton iron tower… They proceeded to take some measurements.” But the next day, Engineer Heuer notes in his district report, “Point Loma, Cal., illuminating apparatus, too large, new lens requested.”


So, had H-L 330 actually been shipped to San Diego? In a letter marked October 30, 1890 from Engineer Heap in New York to The Light House Board, Washington, D.C., “… the lens purchased from appropriation for Point Loma, was bought to replace a lens already sent there…” By now, the Board was procuring a different lens altogether, one that had been slated for Anclote Key, Florida, H-L 329. (This complete optic may be viewed in the Assistant Keepers Quarters, Cabrillo National Monument.)


On November 1, a letter was sent to Engineer Heuer from “Gregory” [assumed associate at 3rd Light House District] stating: “It is very unfortunate about the lens and apparatus for Point Loma. The mistake was made by the maker. On the section of the light-house lantern and watch-room which was sent him as a guide for making the lens apparatus and pedestal, the diameter of the area for the foot of the pedestal is clearly marked 13 inches and he has made the base of the pedestal 26 inches…” This would allow insufficient clearance with the stairway into the lens-room; remedial options were suggested so to fit H-L 330 at Point Loma, but, alas, it was sent away.


H-L 330 went to Chicago, where a new lighthouse at the mouth of the Chicago River was under construction in 1893. Its lantern design could be altered to accommodate the dimensions of the pedestal base of Point Loma’s ‘misfit’ lens. (Chicago Harbor Lighthouse was relocated to the south end of the north breakwater in 1919.)


Meanwhile, beautiful H-L 330 was celebrated at a second fair—Chicago’s 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. However, photographs and sketches of the exhibit by the U.S. Light House Board in the Engineering Building do not reveal this lens.


We began to question, did the lens actually ‘attend’ the fair? But our information foraging had followed an errant path, since a recent pursuit of national archives places H-L 330 in the Mining Building. It had been loaned to the U.S. Geological Survey on behalf of The Standard Oil Company, “a party in interest in the exhibition of the lamp”.


In the early 1960s, Chicago Harbor Lighthouse was automated and the fine old H-L 330 was removed from the tower and declared ‘surplus’. Former historian of Cabrillo National Monument (CNM) Ross Holland became aware of its status, and, with Superintendent Thomas Tucker, managed to have it forwarded, or shall we say, “returned” to San Diego. Two local newspapers confirmed its arrival in July 1968.


CNM conserves four historical lighthouse lenses, which must be appreciated! One shines in the lantern of the old lighthouse, two glimmer in the Assistant Keepers Quarters, and H-L 330 lies in museum storage.


The 1968 shipment from Chicago of the lens included a number of ‘fittings’ belonging to it. There is the curved, bronze door that was part of the pedestal on which the optic rotated. H-L 330 needed to rotate in order to signal red and white ‘flashes’. CNM holds three (of four) rare “ruby screens”, or sheets of red glass, which were once affixed to the wider lens panels. Through these screens the lamp’s light cast red beams.



Lens rotation was given by a system of clockwork and weights before electric motors. The stack of disc-shaped weights with varying heaviness, which linked to the cable for motivating the lens, is in museum storage. Displayed in the AKQ is a lighthouse lens clockwork. It belongs to H-L 330. Left of the mannequin of the lighthouse keeper is a photograph showing this lens. It was taken during the nearly 20 years the lens was exhibited in the Visitor Center, which is also where you may put your fingerprints on a magnificent bull’s-eye of H-L 330.

What remains of H-L 330 was displayed in the CNM Visitor Center, best recollection, 1970-80s. At left, one of the center bulls-eye from the lens. At right, sits the 5th Order optic that served Ballast Point Lighthouse and is exhibited in our AKQ today.

Funny thing is, the 1st Order lens ordered for the 1855 [Old] Point Loma Lighthouse was too large for its lantern, too, so it served elsewhere. But we won’t go there…


It is hoped that you encounter a resurrection ‘of contemplation’ on this curious path of a lighthouse lens. Not earth-shattering maybe, but H-L 330 is irreplaceable, and deserving of merit among all the riches Cabrillo National Monument has to offer.


Sources and more information:


Original blog post: https://cnmvipvoice.org/a-resurrection-of-the-contemplation-of-h-l-330/


The Lighthouses of Cabrillo National Monument:


https://www.nps.gov/cabr/learn/historyculture/the-lighthouses-of-cabrillo-national-monument.htm

FOCHL Online Store is Live!


Exciting news! The Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse (FOCHL) Online Store is now live! Be sure to check out our fun new t-shirt design and pick up some extra pins and stickers to share with your friends and family. All proceeds from the FOCHL Online Store support our mission to Preserve, Restore, and Celebrate the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. Visit www.SaveTheLighthouse.org/store today and show your support!



Celebrating National Lighthouse Day: August 7th


As National Lighthouse Day approaches on August 7th, we take this opportunity to reflect on the significance of lighthouses in our nation's history and to celebrate the iconic Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. This special day commemorates the critical role lighthouses have played in maritime navigation, ensuring the safety of countless sailors and vessels over the centuries.


National Lighthouse Day, established by Congress in 1989, marks the anniversary of the signing of the Lighthouse Act of 1789. This act authorized the establishment of federal support for lighthouse construction and maintenance, recognizing their essential role in maritime safety. On this day, we honor the enduring legacy of lighthouses and their keepers, who have dedicated their lives to guiding ships safely to shore.


The Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, a symbol of our city’s rich maritime heritage, stands as a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who have served at sea. As we gather to celebrate, we also recommit ourselves to the mission of preserving, restoring, and celebrating this historic beacon.


We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Alderman Brendan Reilly and his office for their unwavering support of our mission. Alderman Reilly has been a steadfast ally in our efforts to maintain and restore the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. His commitment to preserving this important piece of our history has been invaluable, and his advocacy has helped us navigate the complexities of city regulations and secure essential resources.



We invite you to join us in celebrating this special day and to continue supporting our efforts to preserve this iconic landmark. Together, we can ensure that the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse remains a beacon of history and hope for many years to come.

Book a Save The Lighthouse Presentation

If you are part of a group of 25 or more interested in learning more about the history of our lighthouse and our efforts, please contact Steve Clements (steveclements@savethelighthouse.org to discuss the possibility of scheduling a presentation for your group.


These presentations will discuss the Lighthouse’s rich history, present condition, and future plans to celebrate and share with the public, its significance to the legacy of Chicago history. 

Speakers Kurt Lentsch, President, FCHL and Edward Torrez, Preservation Architect, have engaged audiences throughout the city for many months with their thoughtful and inspiring presentations on the CHL.

Volunteer Your Time and Talent

Photo credit: Barry Butler

We need your help. Volunteer and join us in our mission to save the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse and keep its legacy alive for generations to come. 


We are a passionate organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and celebrating the historic Chicago Harbor Lighthouse for future generations. Our mission would not be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers who share our passion and commitment to this iconic landmark.


As a volunteer with Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, you will have the opportunity to gain valuable experience, meet new people, and make a meaningful impact in preserving a historic Chicago landmark that is cherished by our city.


If you're interested in donating your talents and joining our team, please visit our volunteer page at savethelighthouse.org/volunteer to learn more.   


Currently, we are seeking talented and experienced part-time volunteers to assist us in fundraising (especially grant writing), construction, and community outreach, helping us build and maintain our connections to local and national organizations. 

CONNECT WITH US

Some of the talented volunteers, who are building this dream.

Email Us

41°53'22"N 87°35'26"W

Visit our Website
Facebook  Instagram  LinkedIn  TikTok  Twitter

Copyright © 2024 Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse - All Rights Reserved.