The Stamford Harbor Ledge Lighthouse is a historic cast iron lighthouse which was constructed in 1882 and later automated in 1953. The lighthouse, which is located on Chatham Rock, off the Stamford shoreline, is a seven story structure with a floating dock. From the balcony on the topmost level of the lighthouse, a stunning panoramic vista of the city of Stamford and the skyscrapers of Manhattan can be seen. The lighthouse is registered as a national landmark of the city of Stamford.
The Hoyt-Barnum House is an ancient dwelling in Stamford, Connecticut. Built in 1699, this Colonial style wood framed house features a chimney column made of materials like straw, clay and animal hair. The house was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969 and the Stamford Historical Society now owns and looks after the property and is open for tours on appointment.
Fort Stamford was built in 1781, in a bid to protect the coastline that extended from Horseneck to New Haven. The fort was restored and is used as a recreational park. The park with its lush green lawns, walking trails and picnic tables is ideal for a day picnic. It also features ruins of the fort and a garden.
A fine specimen of Gothic architecture, The Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist has expanded from a small church originally established in early 1850s to a large structure accommodating multiple immigrants of the Catholic faith today. In contrast to the Gothic exterior, the interiors are simple yet captivating. The church is famously called 'The Mother Church of Stamford'.
The Edgar Josselyn and Nathan Mellon designed Beaux Arts building was constructed in 1905 to serve as Stamford’s town hall. Over the period, the building could not accommodate all the city offices and hence steadily different departments relocated, and finally the town hall was completely vacant. In 1972, efforts to restore this historical hall were made and the National Register of Historic Places accorded a listing to this edifice.
A peninsula located at the southern tip of Stamford, Shippan Point is a small neighborhood known for its Victorian age houses and rich history. Stretched at 800 acres (3237.5 hectares) this tranquil neighborhood boasts of broad avenues, picturesque locations, scenic beaches and friendly and hospitable residents. Its serene atmosphere makes it a perfect place to seek time off from the bustling city life and stress that comes with it. While here be sure to visit the Marion Castle, a stunning French-style mansion which was once home to the Marion family and now showcases the significance of the neighborhood in the 18th century.
