Jeffrey's Hook Light

Jeffrey's Hook Light is a red cylindrical tower made of concrete and cast iron, standing about 40 feet tall beneath the George Washington Bridge along the Hudson River. The compact structure is distinctive despite its small size and clearly defines the park's landscape.

The tower was built in 1921 to guide ships on the Hudson River but was originally constructed elsewhere. It was relocated to Manhattan before the construction of the George Washington Bridge rendered its navigational purpose unnecessary.

The small red tower became famous through American children's literature and has fascinated generations of readers. Many visitors come specifically because of this literary connection and discover a genuine piece of riverside history in the process.

The tower sits in Fort Washington Park and is easily reached from the walking path that runs along the Hudson River. The best time to visit is during daylight when you can clearly see the structure and the bridge above it.

Many visitors don't realize that this tower inspired a classic children's book telling the story of a red lighthouse under a big bridge. This literary connection has made the structure a symbol in American popular culture.