NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound is scheduled to open the historic Stratford Point Lighthouse in Stratford, Connecticut, for free public tours August 8, 2015.
The property, which is traditionally closed to the public, is owned and maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard and will be open from 9 a.m., until 3 p.m., rain or shine.
“Lighthouses are a part of our nation’s historic treasury and proudly served the mariners as a beacon of safety to the valuable ports of our country,” said Capt. Ed Cubanski, the commanding officer of Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound. “Each lighthouse tells a unique story of the coastal community it serves. We are honored to have the opportunity to provide this open house to share the history of this light and community with the public.”
The first light on Stratford Point was a wooden, octagonal structure built in 1822 and was replaced with the current cast iron tower in 1881.
Lighthouses were first managed by the U.S. government in 1789, with the creation of the U.S. Lighthouse Establishment, later becoming the U.S. Lighthouse Service.
The U.S. Coast Guard took charge of lighthouses on July 1, 1939, when the services merged.
WHO: Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound
WHAT: Stratford Point Lighthouse will be available for tours. The tours will be free and open to the public.
WHEN: August 8, 2015, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m..
WHERE: Stratford Point Lighthouse
1275 Prospect Drive
Stratford, CT, 06615
***EDITOR’S NOTE: If you would like additional information, contact LTJG Marty Betts at 203-468-4432.***