Race Rock Light

Race Rock Light is a granite lighthouse standing on a treacherous reef near Long Island Sound where multiple waterways converge. The structure rises about 14 meters and is built entirely from massive stone blocks designed to withstand the strong currents and waves of this location.

The lighthouse was built between 1871 and 1878 and represented one of the last major masonry structures of its kind before steel construction became standard. Construction proved exceptionally difficult because workers labored on a submerged rock in powerful currents.

The structure takes its name from the rocky reef where it stands and has long served as a crucial waypoint for sailors navigating these hazardous waters. Visitors can observe how this beacon continues to connect inland activity with ocean traffic, representing a vital link in maritime routes.

The lighthouse sits on an isolated rock and is accessible only by boat from the mainland. Since the location is exposed to the elements, visitors should check weather conditions and bring appropriate clothing.

The foundations contain about 10,000 tons of granite laid underwater that extend for several hundred meters beneath the surface. This massive underground structure stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering achievement.

Location: Long Island

Inception: 1878

Architects: Francis Hopkinson Smith

Height: 14 m

Made from material: granite

GPS coordinates: 41.24350,-72.04700

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:40