Stonington Harbor Light
Stonington Harbor Light, Maritime museum and lighthouse in Stonington, Connecticut, US.
Description
Stonington Harbor Light is an octagonal granite tower standing 11 meters tall at the harbor entrance with a circular glass lantern on top. The structure now operates as a museum where visitors can climb through the interior to view maritime artifacts and learn about its original purpose.
History
The original lighthouse was built in 1823 by federal order, then rebuilt in 1840 using materials from the previous tower. This reconstruction reflected the government's effort to improve navigation safety along the Connecticut coast during the 1800s.
Culture
The museum inside holds maritime objects from the era when local fishermen built their wealth on the sea, showing how important shipping was to this small town.
Practical
The site sits at the end of a waterfront path near duBois Beach within easy walking distance from Stonington Village center. Wear sturdy shoes as the ground is uneven and the interior stairs are narrow with low ceilings in some sections.
Did you know?
The lantern at the top still operates today, though it now uses modern electric light instead of the whale oil that once burned there. Despite the upgrade, it continues to send signals and remains visible from the harbor on clear nights.
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