Point Judith Lighthouse stands at the entrance to Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island, marking a historically treacherous point for mariners. Located on the west side of the bay’s entrance and the north side of the eastern entrance to Block Island Sound, this lighthouse has been pivotal in guiding vessels safely through these busy waterways.
History of Point Judith Lighthouse
The original lighthouse at Point Judith was constructed in 1810, featuring a 35-foot wooden tower. Unfortunately, this structure was destroyed by a hurricane in 1815. A replacement stone tower was built in 1816, equipped with a revolving light and ten lamps.
The current octagonal brownstone tower, standing 51 feet tall on a granite base, was erected in 1857 and has since become an iconic landmark. The lighthouse was automated in 1954, eliminating the need for a resident keeper.
The Last U-Boat of World War II
On May 5, 1945, a day after Germany’s surrender order, the German submarine U-853 — having missed the cease-fire signal — torpedoed and sank the coal collier SS Black Point approximately 5 miles south of Point Judith, killing 12 of 46 crew. U-853 was hunted down and sunk that same day by US destroyer escorts USS Atherton and USS Moberly, with all 55 hands aboard the U-boat lost. The encounter is widely considered the final wartime action in the Atlantic theater of WWII. The U-853 wreck remains a popular but hazardous recreational dive site.
Point Judith Lighthouse Architecture and Design
The lighthouse features an octagonal design constructed from brownstone (Connecticut freestone) on a granite base. It measures 24 feet wide at the base, tapering to 13 feet at the top. To enhance its visibility during daylight, the upper half of the tower is painted brown, while the lower half is white. It is topped with a black lantern housing a fourth-order Fresnel lens — the original Parisian lens installed in 1857 and still in service — which emits a white light occulting every 15 seconds, visible up to 16 nautical miles.
Location and Surroundings
Situated in Narragansett, Rhode Island, Point Judith Lighthouse is positioned on a strategic point that has historically been hazardous due to treacherous ledges and frequent fog. The surrounding area offers picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and access to nearby beaches, making it a popular spot for visitors seeking both natural beauty and historical significance.
Visiting Point Judith Lighthouse
While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding grounds are accessible and provide a scenic location for photography, picnicking, and ocean views.
Getting There
Point Judith Lighthouse is located at 1460 Ocean Road, Narragansett, RI 02882. Visitors can reach the site by taking Route 1 to Point Judith Road, then following signs to the lighthouse.
Visiting Hours
The lighthouse grounds are typically open to the public during daylight hours. However, as it remains an active Coast Guard facility, access may occasionally be restricted without notice.
Admission
There is no admission fee to visit the lighthouse grounds.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of the lighthouse are not available, as the tower itself is closed to the public.
Visitor Guidelines
- Respect all signage — the tower remains active Coast Guard property.
- Stay back from the rocky cliff edge along the point.
- Use the public parking and observation areas; do not enter Coast Guard restricted zones.
- Bring a camera — the 270-degree ocean views from the point are among Rhode Island’s best.
Plan Your Visit
A trip to Point Judith Lighthouse offers a blend of historical intrigue and coastal beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a serene seaside experience, the lighthouse and its surroundings provide a memorable destination.