The Little Red Lighthouse

I had never heard about this lighthouse until the children's book The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Grey Bridge by Hildegarde Swift was mentioned in an episode of The West Wing several years ago. This little lighthouse, officially know as the Jeffery's Hook Lighthouse, operated from 1921 to 1947, and sits in the shadows of the George Washington Bridge.

Swift's book, published in 1942, tells the significance of a small thing in the big world. Thanks to the book, the Little Red Light became a favorite of children, which prompted an outcry when the Coast Guard looked to dismantle it after it was deactivated. The Lighthouse was transfered to the NYC Parks Department which now maintains it.

A few weeks ago, while heading out to Pennsylvania, I took a ride down through Palisades Park on the NJ side of the Hudson, and found a spot under the bridge where I could see the lighthouse.

http://moose135.smugmug.com/photos/85647943-L.jpg
http://moose135.smugmug.com/photos/85647916-L.jpg

WOW I had no clue that existed till just now, intresting. It is wither super small or that bridge is way bigger than I actually thought.

Oh man John this really strikes cord with me. I remember reading that book as a child and trying to find that light house every-time I drove with my family to NJ. I've never seen it in all my years, thanks for posting this. It really brings a smile to my face.