Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven, New Haven County, United States | Park

For a brief 73 years light beams from the lighthouse at Lighthouse Point Park extended welcoming, comforting arms to ships and sailors returning from voyages from the four corners of the world.

Today the beacon from the New Haven Light House at Lighthouse Point is dark, but the tower remains, greeting ships from around the world to New Haven, Connecticut, United States.

The New Haven Lighthouse at Lighthouse Point in New Haven is located at the Eastern point of New Haven Harbor. Old Maps show it as Five Mile Point called that because that is the distance between it and the center of New Haven. It was also called Morris Point during the Colonial period.

Because it was located too far north on the shore to be seen by ships coming from the east it was decided that a new lighthouse was needed. Congress appropriated $10,000 for a new facility and the new lighthouse opened in 1847.

Also octagonal in shape, (a Connecticut lighthouse trademark) the exterior was constructed by Marcus Bassett. Made of sandstone from East Haven, furnished by Jabez Potter, the sandstone was hauled over difficult terrain by horse-draw drays. The interior was lined with New Haven brick. The circular staircase, with its 74 steps guiding the way to the lantern, are made of granite from local quarries. The last eight feet to the top are reached from a landing via a 8 foot metal ladder through a hatch.

In 1924 the City of New Haven purchased Lighthouse Point Park from the East Shore Amusement Company. Today, the Park attracts thousands to the public beach to enjoy the beauty of Long Island Sound. Devoted anglers take advantage of the fishing pier and a public boat launch that is available for leisure craft. Picnic tables dot the grounds, shaded by trees and pavilions. Kids can enjoy the playground and swings.