Avery Point Lighthouse

History

Avery Point Light or Avery Point Lighthouse is located in Groton, Connecticut, on the Avery Point Campus of the University of Connecticut. The lighthouse was built in March 1943, but it was not illuminated until May 1944 due to concerns of possible enemy invasion during World War 2. Its original light consisted of eight 200-watt bulbs that were replaced by a flashing green light in 1960. It was deactivated on June 25, 1967, when the United States Coast Guard Training Station moved to Governors Island. It is officially listed as the last lighthouse built in the state; the only other claimant is the replica Mystic Seaport Light.

The lighthouse deteriorated until the University of Connecticut declared it to be a hazard in 1997. A restoration effort was launched in 1999 through the American Lighthouse Foundation (ALF) and the Avery Point Lighthouse Society. The restoration of the lighthouse began in 2001 and was completed in 2006, requiring a replica lantern, extensive structural repairs, and replacement of crumbling blocks. Bills were appropriated for $150,000 and $100,000 and used to complete the restoration. The relighting and re-dedication of the lighthouse was held on October 15, 2006. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.

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