Built in 1840, the Lighthouse Museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the first lighthouse in the United States to become a maritime museum. It preserves the history of Stonington and southeastern Connecticut and endures as a compelling feature of the cultural landscape. Exhibits explore an extraordinary collection of artifacts that illustrate nearly 400 years of Stonington’s history. The Lighthouse marks not only the entrance to Stonington Harbor, but explores the times when Stonington seamen like Nathaniel Palmer and Edmund Fanning were charting the world; when Stonington served as the nexus for all steamship and rail travelers between New York City and points north; and when Stonington could claim credit for rebuffing two British attacks.

To date, work has been completed that corrects serious structural and environmental hazards. New climate controls, electrical systems and wiring have been installed. Structural supports have been reinforced, and barriers against moisture and insects will keep harmful elements out.

We have made great progress, but our work is not done. A Visitor Center will create a welcoming and accessible museum for the 21st-century. A dynamic museum with changing and expanded exhibits that represent diverse voices will be accessible to all. Improvements to one of the few remaining green spaces in Stonington Borough will create a community terrace, granite benches, and significant grading improvements for ease of use, and off-street ADA-accessible parking.