Faulkner’s Island Light, also known as Falkner Island Lighthouse, stands as Connecticut’s second-oldest extant lighthouse and the state’s only active light station on an island. Sometimes called the “Eiffel Tower of Long Island Sound,” this historic beacon has guided mariners through the surrounding shoals since 1802. The lighthouse sits about 3 miles offshore from Guilford, Connecticut.
History of Faulkner’s Island Light
Commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, Faulkner’s Island Light was constructed in 1802 to address the numerous shipwrecks occurring in the area. The U.S. government purchased the island from Medad Stone for $325 in 1801. The lighthouse has witnessed significant historical events, including British forces landing during the War of 1812 and instructing the keeper’s wife, Thankful Stone, that they had nothing to fear as long as they kept the light burning — though her husband Solomon Stone was later ordered by the New London customs inspector to extinguish it. Keeper Oliver N. Brooks (1851–1882) was credited with assisting in 71 shipwreck events during his tenure. His most famous rescue came in November 1858, when he single-handedly saved five people from the wrecked schooner Moses F. Webb during a gale, using his 18-foot skiff. He received a Gold Lifesaving Medal from the New York Life Saving Society.
The Bowling Alley Keeper
Earlier keeper Eli Kimberly (1818–1851) ran the lighthouse for 33 years and famously installed a small bowling alley and well-stocked bar to entertain summer visitors. After a drunken brawl involving 20 men broke out on July 4, 1829, the U.S. Lighthouse Establishment passed regulations prohibiting the sale of liquor at American light stations.
Faulkner’s Island Light Architecture and Design
Designed by stonemason Abisha Woodward — who also built Connecticut’s oldest lighthouse, New London Harbor Light — the structure features a 46-foot octagonal brownstone tower lined with brick. An unusual external staircase leads to the gallery deck, a distinctive characteristic of this lighthouse. A fourth-order Fresnel lens was installed in 1856. The original keeper’s house, built in 1802, was rebuilt in 1851 and again in 1871. On March 15, 1976, a fire destroyed the keeper’s house and scorched the lighthouse tower. The Coast Guard repaired the tower and automated the light in 1978. The lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. Restoration efforts since 1991 by the volunteer Faulkner’s Light Brigade have preserved the lighthouse, with a major $200,000 restoration completed in 1999.
Location and Surroundings
Faulkner’s Island is a crescent-shaped island covering approximately 2.87 acres in Long Island Sound, about 3 miles south of Guilford, Connecticut. Since 1985, the island has been part of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It hosts one of the largest breeding colonies of the endangered roseate tern in the northeastern United States. Access to the island is restricted during the nesting season, May through August, to protect the bird populations.
Visiting Faulkner’s Island Light
Visiting Faulkner’s Island Light offers a unique glimpse into maritime history and natural conservation efforts.
Getting There
Access to Faulkner’s Island is typically limited to special events due to its protected status. The Faulkner’s Light Brigade, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the lighthouse, organizes an annual open house in early fall, providing boat transportation from Guilford Harbor to the island.
Visiting Hours
The annual open house usually occurs in September. Specific dates and times vary each year, so it’s advisable to check the Faulkner’s Light Brigade website for the most current information.
Admission
While there is no set admission fee for the open house, donations to support the preservation efforts are appreciated.
Guided Tours
During the open house, guided tours of the lighthouse are provided, offering historical insights and showcasing restoration efforts. Nature discussions highlight the island’s wildlife and ongoing conservation activities.
Visitor Guidelines
- Access is highly restricted — the only public visitation is during the Faulkner’s Light Brigade’s annual open house in early September.
- The roseate tern nesting season (May through August) closes the island to all visitors.
- All boat access requires advance arrangement; private landing is not permitted.
- Bring binoculars — the island offers excellent birdwatching during open visits.
Plan Your Visit
A visit to Faulkner’s Island Light during the annual open house provides a rare opportunity to explore a historic lighthouse and experience a vital bird sanctuary. The combination of rich maritime history and natural beauty makes it a memorable destination for history enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers alike.