New London Harbor Light is
the Fourth Lighthouse built in
North America,
the First built on Long Island
Sound,
& the Only one owned by us!
This year is the 250 anniversary of its founding!
In 2009, the New London Maritime Society became owners of New London Harbor Light.
The US Coast Guard continues to operate the structure as an aid to navigation. Meanwhile, the New London Maritime Society is making the repairs necessary to open New London Harbor Light to the public on a strictly limited basis possibly starting as soon as the spring of 2011. Fron the top of the lighthouse, it is possible to see at least four other lighthouses: New London Ledge, Race Rock, Little Gull Island, and Avery Point.
The New London Maritime Society is pleased to annouce that a generous gift from the Kitchings Family has been used to establish a lighthouse endowment. This fund will be used to insure the light's permanent care. Additional contributions to the lighthouse fund may be made to:
New London Harbor Light Fund
New London Maritime Society
150 Bank Street, New London, CT 06320
860-447-2501, nlmaritimedirector@gmail.com
This station was established in 1760. The current conical tower was constructed of brownstone in 1801, and keeper's quarters in 1863 (enlarged in 1900). The station was automated in 1912.
Possible date range based on construction of fog signal house, whose date is given as 1903 (discontinued 1911) and automation of light.
left: Gwen Basilica's new mosaic at The Parade, June, 2010
immediately below: one panel from Lynda McLaughlin's new mural on 12 Golden Street, June, 2010.
three below: James Diaz-Saavedra's collection of lighthouse postcards, on view at the Custom House in Summer 2009.
