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On the central western shore of Lake Winnebago, just a few miles north of Oshkosh, a promontory extends into the water. On this point in 1871, construction began on the Northern Asylum for the Insane.

The name of the institute was later changed to Winnebago Mental Health Institute. The promontory is still known as Asylum Point, and the surrounding water is called Asylum Bay.

The word Asylum means a place of refuge or sanctuary, and the institute “has throughout its history, provided many troubled individuals with a sanctuary, a refuge, and a safe place to prepare for re-entry into a turbulent world.”

The same statement of purpose might just as well be applied to the nearby Asylum Point Park, as many people come to the park to take refuge from a turbulent world and spend a carefree afternoon fishing in the tranquil waters or simply relaxing on the man-made island next to Asylum Point Lighthouse.

The lighthouse stands sentinel in a once busy area known as Asylum Point Park that separates North and South Asylum Bay. It was formerly known as Lighthouse Island and Picnic Point. The main tower is over 24 feet tall, 8 ft around at the base, and tapers to 6 ft around at the top. The copper topped 7-foot-tall cupola was formerly topped by a flag pole to make the entire height 42 feet.

In 2007, the lighthouse received a $4,000 makeover with labor provided by inmates from the Winnebago Correctional Institute. Parts of the wooden lantern room were replaced, windows were refitted, and the metal roof was rebuilt. Reconstruction replaced the flag pole with a copper fish weather-vane.

Originally the island was made by filling in marsh to make an island of 600’ x 75’. The island had open air fireplaces, trees, shrubs, flowers, and was popular with picnickers who gained access by a wooden bridge.

The lighthouse served as a beacon for those bringing in their catch to the operation’s headquarters. Lit by kerosene lantern the light could be seen 12 miles out on a clear night.

Author: Vicky Redlin, Winnebago County. Article was republished with permission.
Read more: https://www.co.winnebago.wi.us/sites/...