The Archeological Investigation of Four Lighthouse Complexes at the Western End of Lake Superior: The 1988 Testing Program Within Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

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.