The lighthouse was built as an open frame tower with a fog signal building immediately behind it, connected by a 2nd floor corridor.

The tower was equipped with a fifth order Fresnel lens and the fog signal building supplied compressed air to a 10" diameter chime fog whistle, manufactured by Crosby Steam Gauge and Valve Company.

The old open frame tower was later reconstructed as the Chicago Harbor Southeast Guidewall Lighthouse, where it still stands today.

The Fresnel lens remained until June 6, 2019, when it was replaced with a Vega Industries VLB-44 LED light.

The Fresnel lens was moved and placed on display at the Kewaunee County History Center located at 217 Ellis St.