Its original petroleum lantern was at the time a technical revolution and was displayed at the Paris World Exhibition in 1855.

In 1929 the so far greatest modification was made when the entire lantern house was altered and the light source was changed from petroleum to electricity.

Wehrmacht plans proposed the expansion of an airfield on the nearby Braderup heath and the tower would have to be detonated.

With the occupation of Denmark and Norway in 1940 these plans became obsolete though as the strategic importance of Sylt had significantly decreased.

On 4 June 2006, the 150th anniversary was celebrated with a Turmfest and the rare opportunity was provided to scale the newly renovated tower.