This charming lighthouse off the Connecticut coast is a cozy place to spend the night.
Only later did these storied structures, and their keepers, capture my imagination.
What was it like to live at the edge of the world, guiding mariners to safety?
A party at Greens Ledge Lighthouse.Credit:Courtesy of Greens Ledge Light Preservation Society
To look out the window and see nothing but sea?
But first, lunch.
Pettee is an investment advisor who lives in town.
Inside the Greens Ledge Lighthouse.Courtesy of Greens Ledge Light Preservation Society
He offered $150,000, and won.
Then I had to figure out what to do with it!
he said, laughing.
Left: A postcard from 1905. Right: building plans for the lighthouse.Courtesy of Greens Ledge Light Preservation Society
Pettee pointed out the patio and two observation decks, each furnished with picnic tables and Adirondack chairs.
With two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen, the lighthouse can sleep six.
(It accommodates non-overnight parties of up to 50.)
The lighthouse being built in 1901.Courtesy of Greens Ledge Light Preservation Society
Pettee also showed us the solar panels that provide power and the desalination system that makes seawater drinkable.
Then he headed back to shore, saying he would fetch us the following morning.