WELCOME TO THE OLD LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM

This lighthouse was once the beacon for the many vessels approaching Stonington's harbor from Long Island Sound. The original 30-foot stone tower, which was built on the Point in 1823, supported a lantern containing ten oil lamps and parabolic reflectors. Its beacon was visible 12 miles at sea.

During the next few years, however, storms and shore erosion took their toll on the exposed site. In 1840 the structure was dismantled and the materials used to build a new tower and keeper's dwelling on the present site. The light remained active until 1889 when a beacon was installed on the outer end of a new breakwater protecting the harbor entrance.

Stonington's lighthouse became the museum of the Historical Society in 1927. Now six rooms of exhibits testify to the rich and varied history of this coastal region through exhibits depicting the lives of Stonington's fishermen and farmers, merchants and shipbuilders, pottery makers, blacksmiths and many other trades. Each year a special aspect of Stonington history is featured. One room with a large dollhouse is reserved for items of interest to children and adults.

Visitors of all ages enjoy climbing the old iron steps of the tower for an exhilarating view in all directions. Shoppers may browse in the gift area for unusual books, toys and mementos.

Inside the Old Lighthouse Museum.

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Old Lighthouse Museum is owned and operated by The Stonington Historical Society. Adult and child admission fees are charged; combination passes and group rates are available. The museum is open from May to November during the hours shown below. Please phone for additional information and rates.

Open daily, 10 am to 5 pm, May 1 - Oct. 31
7 Water Street, Stonington, CT 06378
Telephone: (860) 535-1440

lighthouse@stoningtonhistory.org

HOW TO FIND US

Take Exit 91 on I-95 (one exit east of Mystic Seaport and Aquarium.). Turn south on Route 234 (Pequot Trial) 0.4 miles to North Main Street. Turn left on North Main 1.5 miles to light at intersection with US Route 1. Cross Route 1 and continue straight to stop sign. Turn left and then take next right over railroad bridge onto Water Street. Follow Water Street through historic Stonington Village to the end. Park at the Point and walk up to the Lighthouse.

OLD LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

The Old Lighthouse Museum is looking for volunteers to welcome guests to the museum, take admissions fees and direct visitors around the museum and to other points of historical interest in the Borough and Town of Stonington.

Volunteers are needed especially for the busy Saturdays and Sundays and suggested shifts that would be most helpful are 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 1.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. Different times may be arranged. Anyone interested in helping the Old Lighthouse Museum and the Stonington Historical Society may contact Curator Louise Pittaway at 860-535-1440 and leave a message or by e-mail at lighthouse@stoningtonhistory.org.

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