Nothing handles three feet of Lake Michigan water like a Deere. Cana Island has learned to deal with being cut off from the mainland thanks to a permanently submerged causeway. Even when the lake is at its most calm, it covers the land bridge by three feet. Maritime Museum Community Engagement Manager Paige Funkhouser says lightkeeper Hal Wilson spent the offseason creating a wagon that sits higher than the transportation used last year. It’s pulled by a brand new John Deere tractor, which also sits high off the ground.
Island tours are available from Friday to Monday. Visitors can scope out the new interpretive center but are not allowed to climb the lighthouse tower itself.