Saybrook Breakwater Light

Saybrook Breakwater Light is a cast-iron lighthouse standing at the mouth of the Connecticut River where it meets Long Island Sound. The cylindrical tower rises from a concrete base and contains multiple levels topped by a double balcony and lantern room.

Congress approved funding in 1882 to build this maritime structure on the west jetty, and it began operating as a navigational aid in 1886. The light guided ships safely through the Connecticut River entrance for over a century.

The lighthouse gained recognition when artist Harley W. Griffiths created a depiction for Land O' Lakes butter packaging based on a 1959 photograph.

The lighthouse is visible from shore and best seen during daylight hours for clear photographs. Nearby public access points along the water offer different viewing angles of the structure.

The tower gained wide recognition after artist Harley W. Griffiths created a painting based on a 1959 photograph for butter packaging. This artwork helped the lighthouse become known far beyond New England.

Location: Old Saybrook

Inception: 1886

GPS coordinates: 41.26320,-72.34276

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:58