Tarrytown Light

The Tarrytown Light, also known as Kingsland Point Light and Sleepy Hollow Light, is a sparkplug lighthouse located on the east side of the Hudson River in Sleepy Hollow, New York, United States.

History

• Construction of the Tarrytown Light began in 1883. The need for a lighthouse to warn ships away from the shoals near the common route off Tarrytown and Ossining had been obvious by the mid-19th century.
• However, high land values at two favored locations led the federal government to instead build it 1⁄2 mile offshore.
• The light remained in use until the mid-20th century; the construction of the Tappan Zee Bridge on the shoals where it stood and the development of the General Motors Tarrytown Truck Assembly plant on land reclaimed from the river to its east made the light obsolete.
• In 1979, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Architecture

The Tarrytown Light is a conical steel structure erected in the 1880s. It features a unique design with living quarters within the tower rather than attached to it.

Light Characteristics

The Tarrytown Light emits a white light and has a character of "Fl". The range of the light is not specified, but it was reportedly visible for several miles out to sea.

Current Status

Today, the Tarrytown Light is part of a county park. Tours are available, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore this historic lighthouse.

Location and Accessibility

The Tarrytown Light is located at Westchester Riverwalk in Sleepy Hollow, New York. The site is accessible by car or on foot, although parking may be limited.

Heritage Status

As a National Historic Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Tarrytown Light has been recognized for its historical significance and architectural importance.

Notable Historical Events

The construction of the Tappan Zee Bridge in the mid-20th century marked the end of the Tarrytown Light's operational life.