Avery Point Lighthouse
Avery Point Lighthouse, Groton, CT 06340, USA
Name and Location
The Avery Point Lighthouse is located in Groton, Connecticut, USA, with an address at Avery Point Lighthouse, Groton, CT 06340, USA. Its location is marked by a geographic coordinate of (41.3152528° N, 72.0635863° W).
Construction and History
The Avery Point Lighthouse was constructed in 1840, serving as an important aid to navigation for mariners during the mid-19th century. This period saw rapid growth in maritime trade and commerce in the region.
Architecture and Materials
Designed by architect Ira F. Olcott, the Avery Point Lighthouse is a two-story structure with an octagonal tower and a keeper's dwelling attached. It stands 50 feet tall, with a focal height of approximately 55 feet above sea level. The lighthouse was constructed using local stone and mortar.
Light and Navigation
The original light characteristic was a fixed white light with a range of about 15 miles. In the early 20th century, the light was electrified and its pattern changed to a flashing red light with a range of approximately 20 miles.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can reach the lighthouse by car, taking Route 215 (Poquonock Avenue) to Avery Point Park. The park offers scenic views of Long Island Sound and picnic areas. Visitors can also walk or bike to the lighthouse from Groton's downtown area. The lighthouse is open to the public for guided tours and educational programs.
Notable Views and Landscape
The surrounding area is said to be haunted by the spirits of former lighthouse keepers and sailors who have passed through the waters. Visitors can explore the scenic views of Long Island Sound and picnic areas at Avery Point Park.
Anecdotes and Folklore
According to local legend, the Avery Point Lighthouse has been a beacon of hope for mariners and a symbol of the region's rich maritime history. Visitors are said to have reported paranormal activity in the area.
Technical and Operational Details
The lighthouse was automated in 1933, eliminating the need for manual operation by keepers. The lighthouse remains accessible to the public during museum hours, offering guided tours and educational programs.
Further Information
- "Avery Point Light" on Wikipedia (en:Avery Point Light)
- Connecticut Museum of History and Art's (CMHA) exhibit on the history of lighthouses in the state
- National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) listing for Avery Point Lighthouse
Details
| Name | Avery Point Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| City | Groton |
| Country | Usa |
| Coordinates | 41.3152534, -72.0635884 |
| Year of construction | 1840 |
| Events | no notable events mentioned |
| Historic significance | aid to navigation, helping ships navigate the treacherous waters of Long Island Sound. |
| Stories | local legend: beacon of hope for mariners and symbol of the region's rich maritime history |
| Architectural style | octagonal tower with a keeper's dwelling attached |
| Architect | Ira F. Olcott |
| Focal height | 55 |
| Tower height | 50 |
| Heritage status | true |
| Renovations | electrified in the early 20th century |
| Access description | by car, taking Route 215 (Poquonock Avenue) to Avery Point Park. The park offers scenic views of Long Island Sound and picnic areas. |
| Accessible | true |
| Landscape type | rocky coast |
| View description | scenic views of Long Island Sound |
| Guided tours | true |
| Facilities | toilets, picnic areas |
| Opening hours | museum hours |
| Nearby attractions | Connecticut Museum of History and Art's (CMHA) exhibit on the history of lighthouses in the state |
| Light characteristic | {"type":"flashing","color":"red","range":20} |