Stonington Lighthouse and Museum

STONINGTON, CT - Tucked down the narrow incredibly picturesque streets of Stonington, just outside of Mystic along the shore of the Long Island sound, is the Stonington Lighthouse and Museum. Although it may look like many other now retired lighthouses in the northeast, what is inside and the area’s rich history is what makes the lighthouse and its museum an attractive destination to visit for those interested in history.

During the war of 1812, British ships including the HMS Terror, bombarded Stonington in an attempt to obtain the surrender of the town in what became known as the Battle of Stonington. Although the battle was by no means pivotal to the outcome of the war, and lasted only a few days, the events of that August provide great local lure and are the origin for many of the artifacts at the museum. If you were wondering about the outcome of the battle, after a few days the British ships retreated and the town declared victory.

As far the granite Lighthouse itself, the view from its top, known as the lantern room, is the equivalent of about 3 stories high, and is magnificent. On a clear day, Long Island New York is visible across the Sound. The top of the lighthouse today is completely enclosed and is an easy walk up the approximate 40 narrow, spiraling steps.

The museum’s collection of military artifacts from the battle is impressive and unique. One of the highlights is a 24 pound cannon ball fired by the British. Not just the cannon ball is displayed, but a section of the wall showing where the projectile impacted.

Another unique artifact is an actual rocket that was fired by the HMS Terror at the town. The Congreve rocket, which the British used extensively during this era, is the type fired on Ft. McHenry during the famous battle witnessed by Francis Scott Key. The sight inspired Key to make reference to “rockets red glare” in the song that later became America’s National Anthem. The rocket looks much like a gigantic version of today's “bottle rocket.”
(Bottle rockets are the small projectiles that are often an integral part of many household 4th of July celebrations.)

The museum has a total of six rooms of displays telling the history Stonington and the Battle. The museum’s hours and days of operation vary depending on the season. For more information visit www.stoningtonhistory.org or call 860.535.1440.

Where to stay if visiting: Inn at Mystic. A landmark in Mystic, this historic Inn is located on a bluff convenient to downtown, the Seaport and the Aquarium. It is less than 15 minutes from the Stonington Lighthouse. The Motor Inn section includes 40 rooms, while the Haley Mansion is a five room Colonial Revival mansion built in 1904. A Gate House holds another four rooms while the East Wing comprises the final 12 rooms. On site gourmet dinning is available at Floodtides. For more information visit: innatmystic.com or call 860.536.9604.