Perched at the mouth of the Thames River in Connecticut, the New London Ledge Lighthouse is a distinctive maritime beacon known for its unique architectural style and storied past. Built between 1906 and 1909, this lighthouse has guided countless vessels safely into New London Harbor, standing as a testament to the region’s rich nautical heritage. Originally named Southwest Ledge Light, it was renamed New London Ledge Light in 1910 to avoid confusion with the similarly named lighthouse in New Haven.
History of New London Ledge Lighthouse
The construction of the New London Ledge Lighthouse was driven by the need to safely navigate vessels around the hazardous ledges at the entrance to New London Harbor. Prior to its establishment, numerous requests were made for a navigational aid in this area, highlighting the dangers posed by these underwater obstacles. In 1904, Congress appropriated $60,000 for the lighthouse, with construction completed and the light first illuminated on November 10, 1909. The original Fresnel lens, crafted in Paris by Henry-LePaute, displayed a distinctive signature of three white flashes followed by one red flash every 30 seconds.
After the Coast Guard automated the light in 1987, the original fourth-order Fresnel lens was removed and is now on display at the Custom House Maritime Museum in New London. The lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. In 2015, ownership transferred to the New London Maritime Society, which now operates seasonal tours and maintains the structure. The fog signal at New London Ledge is referenced in Eugene O’Neill’s play Long Day’s Journey Into Night, set in the playwright’s New London hometown.
The Legend of Ernie
The lighthouse is famously associated with the ghost of “Ernie,” a keeper who — as the legend goes — leapt from the roof in the 1920s or 1930s after his wife left him for the captain of the Block Island Ferry. Subsequent keepers and Coast Guard personnel reported unexplained phenomena: doors opening on their own, the fog horn sounding spontaneously, items moving, and footsteps in empty rooms. The lighthouse has been featured on paranormal shows including Ghost Hunters and Scariest Places on Earth. New London Ledge was the last manned lighthouse on Long Island Sound; the final Coast Guard crew left on May 1, 1987, leaving behind a famous log entry: “Rock of slow torture. Ernie’s domain. Hell on earth — may New London Ledge’s light shine on forever because I’m through.”
New London Ledge Lighthouse Architecture and Design
Architecturally, the New London Ledge Lighthouse is a standout among American lighthouses. Built atop a concrete pier, the three-story brick and granite structure features a Second Empire-style mansard roof — a French-inspired design popular in the 1860s-1870s. The unusual styling was reportedly chosen to complement the elegant homes visible along the New London shore. Atop the building sits an octagonal watch room and a cast-iron lantern room, which originally housed a fourth-order Fresnel lens.
Location and Surroundings
Situated on the southwest ledge at the entrance to New London Harbor, the lighthouse is approximately a mile offshore from New London, Connecticut. This strategic position was chosen to effectively warn mariners of the dangerous ledges in the area. The surrounding waters are part of Long Island Sound, offering a picturesque maritime landscape that is both serene and historically significant.
Visiting New London Ledge Lighthouse
Visiting the New London Ledge Lighthouse provides a unique glimpse into maritime history and offers scenic views of the Connecticut coastline.
Getting There
Access to the lighthouse is primarily by boat. Several local organizations offer seasonal tours that include transportation to and from the lighthouse. These tours typically depart from New London and provide visitors with historical insights en route to the lighthouse.
Visiting Hours
Tours are generally available during the summer months, with schedules varying by provider. It’s advisable to check with local tour operators or the New London Maritime Society for the most current information on tour availability and timings.
Admission
Admission fees vary depending on the tour provider. These fees typically cover the boat ride to the lighthouse and the guided tour of the facility. Some tours may offer group rates or discounts for children and seniors.
Guided Tours
Guided tours offer an in-depth look at the lighthouse’s history, architecture, and the daily life of its keepers. Visitors can explore the various rooms, including the keeper’s quarters, and learn about the lighthouse’s role in maritime navigation. Some tours also discuss the folklore surrounding the lighthouse, including tales of its resident ghost, “Ernie.”
Visitor Guidelines
- Tours are by boat only — book in advance through the New London Maritime Society or affiliated tour operators.
- Be prepared for variable weather and rough seas — the lighthouse sits about a mile offshore.
- Bring a camera — the lighthouse offers some of the most unique architecture on Long Island Sound.
- Ferry rides between New London, Block Island, and Orient Point pass close by for additional viewing.
Plan Your Visit
A visit to the New London Ledge Lighthouse offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a piece of Connecticut’s maritime history. With its distinctive architecture and captivating stories, the lighthouse is a must-see for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Whether you’re interested in the technical aspects of lighthouse operation or the legends that surround it, the New London Ledge Lighthouse provides a memorable and educational experience.