In 1826, the son-in-law of the original owner of this small island off of Norwalk, CT, Captain Robert Sheffield, sold 4 acres of the island to the U.S. government to build a lighthouse which was completed later that year.
More than 40 years later, the current lighthouse was built and then was deactivated in 1900, when the Peck's Ledge spark plug light was built in the middle of the channel.
In 1914, the land with the lighthouse was sold by the government to the Stabell family.
In 1986, the Norwalk Seaport Association purchase the majority of the land that housed the lighthouse back from the Stabell family.
Majesty Score: 2
The church-like building has quite some character, but only modest majesty. However, as you can see it lends itself to many good photo-ops.
Waterview Score: 3
The waterview is good! On a very clear day you can see the skyline of Manhattan not to mention many leisure boaters. Also, you can see the Greens Ledge Light, shown on the right in the water view picture below.
Preservation Score: 4
The lighthouse has been taken well care of by the NSA. When you tour inside the lighthouse you will see some wearing but overall it is in good condition. Also, several rooms in the lighthouse are set up with antique furniture to show as they were in a bygone era.
Surrounding Area Score: 4
Sheffield Island sits in busy Norwalk Harbor and is surrounded by bustling boats. It is very nice on the island but the island does not have that isolated feeling.
In addition, you are restricted to only certain parts of the island, but you do have access to a wooded area with a short nature trail.
One observation, when I was actually there the accessible parts of the island were much less than I thought they would be. Also, the tip of the island is private property but would offer some of the best photographs if only accessible.
Accessibility Score: 5
Sheffield Island has great accessibility!
There is a complete internal lighthouse tour that is included with your ferry fee.
You can climb the empty light tower for a really good view of Norwalk Harbor. (see below)
Beacon Score: 1
The lens that sat in the 1868 lighthouse has been removed. Tours include taking you up into the empty light tower. The lens being removed aids in giving visitors more room, but takes something away from the lighthouse.
Overall Score and Overview: 21
With its limitations, a trip to Sheffield Island still provides for a very nice afternoon. You spend a few hours on the island with each tour. Also, at the ferry landing there is an aquarium and a IMAX theater which, when coupled with a ferry ride to the island, can make a complete day for the kids!
Directions: From I-95 northbound
Exit 14 (Norwalk) on I-95. Continue straight through two stop signs. At first light make a right on to West Ave. Vere left at third light onto N. Main Street. Take your first left onto Ann Street. The exits from the parkways in Norwalk are tricky, please visit the Sheffield Island Lighthouse home page for more specific directions.
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