On a July visit to Connecticut, we made a stop at the Avery Point campus of the University of Connecticut (UCONN) to photograph the lighthouse that I had heard was located at the edge of the campus. We were pleasantly surprised to find a beautiful campus that along with the lighthouse had some beautiful sculptures. Just offshore of the campus we had a wonderful surprise when I located two additional lighthouses. On this page I will share my photographs of all three lighthouses and some of the sculptures I saw while walking along the paths on the campus.
Avery Point Lighthouse
Avery Point is the last lighthouse built in the state as an official navigational aid. It was completed in 1943 but was not lit until a year later because of concerns about a possible Nazi attack during WWII.
As I strolled along the paths of the university I could see the lighthouse in the distance. It is a distinctive beige brick tower and is a beautiful icon overlooking the water.
New London Harbor Light
Across the water from the campus I noted what I thought might be a lighthouse. When I put on my longer lens, I was delighted to find this stately structure, which I found out was the New London Harbor Light.
In reading a brochure on lighthouse cruises, I found out that this is the oldest lighthouse in Connecticut. It was said to help to guide colonial privateers who sought shelter up the Thames River during the American Revolution.
New London Ledge Lighthouse
In the water, not too far off shore from the campus, I spotted a third lighthouse. This lighthouse has some rather unique architectural features. I read that it is a French Second Empire structure that is architecturally unique for a lighthouse. It is also reported to be haunted by a former keeper.
There were lots of sailboats in the harbor and I was able to capture one just before it passed the lighthouse.
Other Interesting Features on the Avery Point Campus of UCONN
Here are some of the photos I took of a building and a few of the many sculptures on the grounds.
Zazzle Products from my Photos
I enjoy sharing my photos on products made at
Zazzle. Here are a couple you might like.
Mary Beth, in addition to always enjoying the beautifully photographed lighthouses you find, the background history you share is so interesting. What a lovely campus UConn at Avery Point has right there on the water. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWhat a treat it must have been to discover three beautiful lighthouses in such close proximity! Lovely photos, as always.
ReplyDeleteThey are all really beautiful lighthouses! I am especially intrigued by the New London Ledge Lighthouse. I can't even imagine the strong dedication it would have required of a lighthouse keeper to stay on that little area, surrounded by water, in the midst of a raging storm just to keep the light lit for ships. As always, beautiful photos, Mary Beth!
ReplyDeleteWow Mary Beth, it seems like you hit the jackpot when you went to see this lighthouse! Three different and unique structures all dedicated to bringing the light to sailors. What a wonderful experience. Thanks for sharing all your beautiful pictures too!
ReplyDeletelove your photos - that first photo is outstanding. Peaceful is the word I'm looking for I think. You've certainly gathered a huge collection of spectacular photos over the years. You must have enough for a beautiful coffee table book.
ReplyDeleteLove seeing lighthouses from your travels!
ReplyDeleteI'm with you on loving lighthouses mostly because they're near the ocean, which I also love being near. Thanks for this visit to Avery Point.
ReplyDeleteI like the Avery Point photo and the products you made from it. The New London Lighthouse looks awfully isolated.
ReplyDeleteMary Beth I love your articles so much. I feel like I've been outside, visiting lighthouses. That sailboat photo is amazing!!
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