The Sheffield Island Lighthouse is an iconic
symbol of Connecticut’s maritime history. This historic lighthouse
and light keeper’s cottage is located at the southern end of Norwalk’s necklace
of islands on the west entrance of the Norwalk River in Long Island Sound. One
of the best ways to kick of the season is to take a cruise on the C.J. Toth on
Saturday, May 25, Sunday, May 26 and Monday, May 27. at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and
2 p.m. on all three days. Tickets for this exciting excursion can be
purchased in advance by clicking here or at the
dock, space permitting.
Activated in 1868, Sheffield Island Lighthouse, now listed on the
National Register of Historic Places was in service for thirty- four years before
it was retired in 1902. Today a visit to this historic Connecticut
landmark gives visitors a first-hand experience on how important this the lighthouse was to coastal and oceangoing shipping as these vessels plied their
way on Long Island Sound, a major artery of communication and
transportation. A bonus is that once on the island visitors get to
explore the 151- year old lighthouse. A highlight of this journey is the cruise
itself. The cruise allows passengers to experience the beauty
of Norwalk from the water with wonderful views of the shoreline, islands and
the harbor. The fresh sea breeze and birdlife are enjoyed in the comfort of the
Seaport’s modern vessel on the way to and from the island.
Reaching the Island, passengers take a tour of the ten-room light
keeper’s cottage and the lighthouse that is furnished in period furniture
giving visitors a glimpse of what life was like as a lighthouse
keeper. If the day is clear, the New York City Skyline can be
seen. Make sure to save time to look for shells, play on the lawns,
and unwind with a picnic lunch on your own private island before heading back.
A new telescope that is free to use affords spectacular views all the way to
New York! Visitors to the island this spring will also get a sneak peek at the Pavilion that is being built on the Island that will be available for parties
and special events. The Pavilion is expected to be completed July 2019.
If you love nature and birdlife, don’t miss the chance to explore
the Nature Trail through the Steward B. McKinney Wildlife Refuge that is also
located on Sheffield Island. There is a wide array of bird and wildlife to be
seen here including nesting herons, wading birds, shorebirds, terns and many
others. A special viewing platform enhances the viewing experience.
Don’t forget to charge your cell phone up and to bring your camera and
binoculars.
Round trip ferry tickets are $28 for adults, $16
for children 4-12, and, children 3 and under are $7. The boat leaves from
the Sheffield Island Dock located at the corner of North Water Street and
Washington Street in historic South Norwalk. Parking is available in the
adjacent Norwalk Maritime Center Garage. Be sure to wear
comfortable, closed toe shoes. For safety reasons, flip-flops are not
allowed. The capacity of the boat is limited to 49 passengers, so
purchasing tickets in advance is recommended by visiting the website or visit ticketing.
About the Seaport Association
The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 by a group of
local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve
Norwalk’s maritime heritage.
The Norwalk Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental,
and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island
Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and the educational venue, which strives to increase awareness, appreciation and
consideration for our environment and how the preservation of historic
buildings and nature contribute to our quality of life.
It is our belief that preservation strengthens the perpetual the partnership between the past, the present and the future. The combination of
the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an
unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the
importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment and maritime
heritage.
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