Spring on the North Shore this year will bring with it some restoration work to one of Lake County’s most recognizable landmarks, Split Rock Lighthouse. The stated goal of this work, via the official press release, is to “improve accessibility and provide visitors with an enhanced experience at the historic site”.
In 2016, a Cultural Landscape Report (CLR) was created for Split Rock Lighthouse, which “guided recommendations for the preservation of the site that are consistent with the landscape’s significance, condition, and use”, and the construction to take place is a result of that initial report. Funding was provided by Minnesota citizens via an appropriation made by the Minnesota Legislature and approved by the governor of Minnesota.
Existing walkways will be improved, and circulation patterns will be restored to how they were historically, and a permanent sloped walkway will be added to the Keeper’s House, replacing the existing ramp. Post-restoration, the hoist and derrick system will be easily visible, enabling guests to learn how supplies were brought from Lake Superior to the lighthouse site in 1909. “This new extended platform will provide views of the lighthouse, coastline, and Lake Superior”, read the press release.
Construction will begin May 5 and continue through October 2025. During the first phase of construction, estimated from May 5-21, admission to the historic site will be free, though there will be no access to historic buildings, including the lighthouse itself, during this time. After the first phase, the site will be open as normal, with access restored to the historic buildings.
Programming is subject to change during construction, and site manager Hayes Scriven encourages visitors to check Split Rock’s website and social media for the latest information. He added, “We are excited for this project and that it will allow for better movement through the site and that we are going to be able to interpret new parts of the site because of this project.”
