New London Harbor Light, located in New London, CT, is the oldest and tallest lighthouse on Long Island Sound. Constructed in 1761, this 64-foot-tall stone tower with a wooden lantern was built to guide ships away from the treacherous rocks and into the deep natural harbor of New London. Managed by the United States Lighthouse Establishment, the lighthouse played a crucial role in coastal defense and navigation during the American Revolutionary War and continues to serve as a leading light for vessels entering and exiting the harbor.
Over the years, New London Harbor Light has undergone various renovations and improvements, including the installation of an 89-foot octagonal tower in 1801 and the addition of a fourth-order Fresnel lens in 1857. This lens, which remains in use today, illuminates 315 degrees and includes a red sector to warn boats of nearby rocks. With its rich history and significant maritime importance, New London Harbor Light stands as a testament to the region's seafaring heritage and continues to guide ships safely into the harbor.
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