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The Tongue Point Lighthouse marks the east end of Tongue Point (or Wells Point) and the entrance to the Bridgeport Harbor near Bridgeport, Connecticut. First built on the edge of a breakwater during the 1890’s, it was initially known as the Bridgeport Breakwater Light. It was dismantled and moved inland 275 feet when erosion threatened the structure. If you look at certain places on the lighthouse, you can still see the painted numbers that were used to mark where pieces went back together. The 22- foot tall cast iron light now sits on a 10-foot tall concrete pier. No keeper's dwelling was ever built and the keeper had to row out from shore to tend to the light.
The lighthouse was also important in the development of advanced signaling techniques. In 1881 a fog bell was installed, playing a crucial role in the development of fog signaling, an invaluable tool in maritime guiding when visibility was limited.
The lighthouse ceased operations in 1919. Today, the property surrounding the light belongs to the local power company, and is not accessible to the public. The tower can be seen from the Port Jefferson Ferry - which ferries people between Bridgeport and Port Jefferson on Long Island.
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