New London Ledge Lighthouse

The New London Ledge Lighthouse is an interesting structure and is one of the few square lighthouses in existence. The building is made of red brick and topped with a mansard roof. It features a circular lantern room. The reason for the unique appearance is because residents of the New London area did not want to look at something that would seem vastly different from the landlocked architecture in the area. The lighthouse was designed to look similar to the other structures in New London. The lighthouse was erected after more than a century and a half of mariners requesting a lighthouse be built near the mouth of the Thames River. The lighthouse began operating in 1909 and was officially named New London Ledge in 1910. Mention of the lighthouse has appeared in local literature and lore throughout the years. The lighthouse was one of the last remaining manned structures on Long Island Sound until 1987 when it was automated. The lighthouse is cared for by the New London Ledge Lighthouse Foundation and partially funded by the City of New London. It is used as a maritime classroom, but continues to offer light to ships sailing into and out of the area.