Summer Resident Lighthouse Keeper ~ Day 1

Earlier this winter ~ on a cold but sunny day in March 2025 ~ my husband and I took our annual trip to lovely Port Washington, Wisconsin.

“Port” (as it’s affectionately called by its residents) is situated approximately 20 miles north of Milwaukee and situated on the shores of stunning Lake Michigan.

Port is one of our favorite weekend trips away from the streets of Chicago and our jobs, which – let’s face it- can wear us down. Port offers small town charm with gorgeous lake views and enough peace and quiet to refresh ourselves.

On that last day of our trip in March, my husband insisted on driving past the lighthouse station built in 1860. I’m so glad my husband is fun, since that’s when we ran into the caretaker, who mentioned the Resident Lighthouse Keeper program.

I was immediately on board with the idea, since I’d always wanted to live in a lighthouse ever since reading about one as a child. I immediately set out to sign ourselves up for this exciting opportunity.

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Two résumés later — along with a letter of reference and background checks — we found ourselves selected to stay one week in late August.

Lo and behold, here we are today, acting as docents for this historic landmark, where we act as guides for visitors visiting the 18th century structure.

Day One started off with a quick walk into the main part of Port’s downtown for breakfast alongside the boat marina. Afterwards we strolled along the lakefront and appreciated the fresh air and views.

Walking back toward our day’s duties, we climbed the set of stairs from the main street to the lighthouse… I counted 105 steps on the staircase. It was challenging, but we did it!

At 11:00 AM my husband set out the OPEN sign and we eagerly awaited our first visitors.

Here’s what we quickly learned…

• The point of sale system is easy to use. The Historical Foundation has a $5 suggested donation plus t-shirts and postcards are available.

• Visitors are friendly and allow for our novice mistakes.

• My spouse has a gift for chat and is a natural tour guide.

• Ladder-type steps to the third floor tower with the Fresnel light are tricky.

• Views from the tower are worth it.

Stay tuned for more adventures from Port Washington.

Learn more at… https://www.pwhistory.org/

Thank you for reading ~ Pizza For Breakfast