Harriet Colfax Memorial Bascule Bridge

Name: Harriet Colfax Memorial Bascule Bridge
Address: Franklin Street, Michigan City, Indiana, 46360, US
Price range: $ - $$
Rating: 4.3000

Franklin Street, Michigan City, IN 46360

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4.3 3

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Franklin St, Michigan City, IN 46360, United States

blog.newspapers.library.in.gov

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The Harriet Colfax Memorial Bascule Bridge is a historic institution located on Franklin Street in Michigan City, Indiana, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Harriet Colfax, who was the keeper of the Old Michigan City Lighthouse for over forty years. Harriet Colfax was appointed to this position in 1861 by her cousin, Schuyler Colfax, who was a prominent political figure at the time.

Harriet Colfax faced many challenges in her role as lighthouse keeper, including treacherous weather conditions and the daily task of lighting the beacons on the East and West Piers. Despite these challenges, she remained dedicated to her work and never let her lamps go out until she extinguished them herself.

In addition to her duties as lighthouse keeper, Harriet Colfax also enjoyed the natural beauty of Lake Michigan, witnessing spectacular phenomena such as rainbows, eclipses, and the Northern Lights. She lived with her friend, Ann C. Hartwell, who also assisted her in keeping the lanterns lit.

After retiring in 1904, Harriet Colfax and Ann had to leave the lighthouse, which was owned by the Lifesaving Service. Unfortunately, Ann's health deteriorated rapidly after their departure, and she passed away in 1905.

The Harriet Colfax Memorial Bascule Bridge serves as a tribute to the resilience and dedication of Harriet Colfax, who played a vital role in ensuring the safety of sailors along the Hoosier Coast. Visitors to this institution can learn about her remarkable life and the challenges she faced as a pioneering female lighthouse keeper in the 19th century.

Reviews

Lou Donkle:

"Built 1932, reconditioned 1998. It is the only historic movable bridge in Indiana. A bascule bridge is a moveable bridge with a counterweight that continuously balances a span, or leaf, throughout its upward swing to provide clearance for boat traffic, per Wiki. This bridge is historically complete, with railings, bridge tender building, plaques, and riveted girders, per historic bridges dot org. The bridge was renamed in April 2021 to honor Harriet Colfax by the Laporte County Commissioners for being the first female lighthouse tender in Michigan City and serving for over 40 years."

almost 3 years ago

bill kyes:

"Historical gateway to lake Michigan."

almost 5 years ago

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Harriet Colfax Memorial Bascule Bridge

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