The Little Red Lighthouse: New York’s Smallest Guardian of the Hudson
A tiny lighthouse with a towering legacy beneath New York’s busiest bridge.
In a city known for its towering skyscrapers and grand monuments, one of New York’s most charming landmarks stands barely 40 feet tall. Tucked beneath the massive steel span of the George Washington Bridge, The Little Red Lighthouse tells a story of resilience, forgotten history, and unexpected fame.
A Beacon for Boats—and Imagination
Officially named the Jeffrey’s Hook Lighthouse, it was built in 1880 and relocated to its current location in 1921 to help guide ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Hudson River. Painted bright red to stand out against the landscape, it did its job faithfully—until modern navigation and the looming bridge above rendered it obsolete.
The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1948. Its purpose lost, it faced demolition.
Saved by a Children’s Book
What makes this lighthouse extraordinary isn’t just its age or design—it’s the fact that a children’s book saved it.
In 1942, author Hildegarde Swift and illustrator Lynd Ward published The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Gray Bridge. The story anthropomorphized the lighthouse, giving it pride and then sadness as the giant bridge overshadowed its light—only to realize it still had value. The tale resonated deeply with readers.
When demolition was announced, public outcry—much of it from children—led to the lighthouse being preserved. By 1979, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A Hidden Gem in Plain Sight
Today, The Little Red Lighthouse is part of Fort Washington Park. You can reach it via a scenic trail, and on special occasions, the public can even tour the interior. It’s become a symbol of standing tall despite feeling small—something New Yorkers and visitors alike can appreciate.
The Little Red Lighthouse isn't just a relic of maritime history; it’s a testament to how stories can preserve places. Amid the chaos of the city, this modest structure reminds us that size doesn’t always equal significance. Sometimes, the smallest voices protect the most enduring landmarks.