Holland Harbor Lighthouse (also known as "Big Red") was not always as it appears today. The light was built originally in 1872 as a simple wood tower. In 1880, it was rebuilt as a larger steel frame tower. The present day building was completed in 1907. In 1936, the tower and lens room were added to the structure's roof. The entire lighthouse was then covered with steel plates and painted bright red.
|
The unique twin gabled design with diamond-paned windows and shake shingled appearance is influenced by the prevalent Dutch architecture of the area. The structure was built to house the steam boilers that power the loud fog horns. The light is located along the end of the south pier, but access is restrictive. A guard must grant permission to pass into a private community to visit up close.
|
