Just north of Chicago is a towering 19th-century lighthouse that overlooks the crashing waves of Lake Michigan, and it feels entirely unexpected for the Midwest.
While the Grosse Point Lighthouse is now a national landmark, the reason it was constructed in the first place is quite tragic.
In 1860, a steamship named the Lady Elgin set sail north from Chicago. During a midnight storm, the vessel was struck by another boat, leading to the tragic deaths of more than 300 people. This disaster is recognized as the deadliest maritime incident in Great Lakes history.
In the wake of this tragedy, the city of Evanston lobbied the federal government to construct a lighthouse to guide coastal vessels. The soaring tower, now over 150 years old, finally opened in 1873.
Grosse Point Lighthouse is now a wildflower refuge
Today, the lighthouse continues to keep watch in Evanston.
The original sweeping beam is long gone, replaced by an automated electric light that flashes steadily across the water.
Surrounding the 1999 National Historic Landmark is the Lighthouse Wildflower Trail Garden. Pathways wind through dense flora and lead to a series of small dunes that open up onto a wide beach. Visitors can explore the outdoor grounds year-round.
For a closer look at the architecture, the Evanston History Center offers guided tower tours. You can head there on a weekend afternoon from 2 PM to 4 PM.
