New York City’s surrounding islands are always home to unique structures, from hospitals to now a lighthouse. On the Long Island Sound north of Sands Point sits Execution Rocks Lighthouse, recently covered by Nick Carr of Scouting NY. This lighthouse and keeper’s house is in immaculate condition thanks to oversight by Historically Significant Structures.
Execution Rocks Lighthouse was first built in 1849 by congressional action and the keeper’s house built 18 years later in 1867. In 1979, the lighthouse was automated. According to Carr, rumors abound of the origins of the island’s name. The most widely spoken tale has that American patriots were executed there by the British during the Revolutionary war. However, the island appeared to have been named for the submerged rocks proving treacherous for ships in the area.
Acquired in 2007 by Historically Significant Structures, a non-profit founded by Craig Morrison and Linell Lukesh, the structure if open for tours or even rentals at $300 a night. Carr calls it “New York’s most unusual B&B.” This is part of fundraising efforts for further restoration.
