During June and July of 1988, archeologists from the Midwest Archeological
Center performed limited testing at four historic lighthouse complexes
within Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The lighthouses, which still
protect shipping at the western end of Lake Superior, were scheduled for
exterior restoration work. Specifically, immediate plans called for the
installation of drainage systems about certain structures on Sand Island,
Michigan Island, Outer Island, and Devils Island to mitigate continuing
ground water damage to their foundations.
Archeological investigations sought to assess the potential impacts to
cultural resources in those areas of the light stations that would be
disturbed by proposed developments. Shovel probes and controlled test
excavations were used to examine the proposed drain alignments, as well as
construction staging areas. No significant cultural resources were
discovered during the five-week project that would warrant modification of
the drainage systems or further archeological excavation prior to
construction of these improvements. General recommendations concerning
future research potential and cultural resources management at the four
island complexes are offered.
