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Lighthouses for Sale in Connecticut
May 23, 2014

Off the shores of Connecticut, lay two lighthouses that will go up for sale in the summer of 2014 for the price of a plan that will preserve the beacons.

This is a two-step process, according to the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act of 2000.

The first step is that the Straford Shoal Light and the Pecks Ledge Light will be offered for $1 to a non-profit organization, town or any other public entity that submits an acceptable plan for preservation to the federal government. The

"buyer" must agree to preserve the lighthouse and use it for cultural or educational purposes.

The second step takes place only if an acceptable plan is NOT submitted. Both lighthouses will go up for auction to the public in 2015. The auction is not restricted to the public only, towns and cities can bid as well.

The sale of lighthouse can be tricky as the state owns the land under many lighthouses. This land is called "bottom-lands". Connecticut does not have a law that is clear about the transfer of bottom-lands, therefore the transfer can become complex.

The Stratfod Shoal Light was completed in 1877 and is built like a two story home with the top consisting of an octaganal light tower. This lighthouse was designed to house one keeper and two assistants. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Pecks Ledge, built in 1906 is made of cast iron and is constructed in the "spark plug" style. It is located at the east edge of the Norwalk Islands and was designed to house two lighthouse keepers. Pecks Ledge was staffed for 27 years and then became automated in 1933.

According to Robert Zarnetske, administration for the New England region of the federal General Services Administration, "Lighthouses are an important part of our maritime history in New England and throughout the nation. GSA is looking for passionate and capable new stewards to help us ensure that these architectural treasures will be preserved without burdening taxpayers."

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