Rose Island Lighthouse - Newport Rhode Island
Mailing Address:
Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation
P.O. Box 1419
Newport, RI 02840
Just a short boat ride from Newport, Rhode Island, sits a quiet island brimming with history, mystery, and oceanfront charm. At its heart stands the Rose Island Lighthouse, a beacon built in 1870, guiding ships through Narragansett Bay for over a century.
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Prints & Downloads

Map

Rose Island Lighthouse Keepers (1869–1909)
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John Bailey Cozzens - November 25, 1869 - First official keeper; lit the beacon on January 20, 1870.
George C. Williams - November 6, 1872 - Civil War veteran; passed away while in service on January 7, 1879.
Charles F. Williams - February 8, 1879 - Served as acting keeper following George C. Williams' death.
Gustave A. Clark - June 14, 1879 - Initially acting; appointed full keeper on February 11, 1881.
Charles S. Curtis - September 14, 1887 - Longest-serving keeper (1887–1918); known for his dedication and heroism

Location

Accessible only by boat, visitors can reach Rose Island via the Jamestown-Newport Ferry during the warmer months or by private vessel. The lighthouse operates as a living museum, offering self-guided tours that provide insights into its history, architecture, and the island's ecological significance.

If you're planning a visit or overnight stay, it's advisable to contact the Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation directly for reservations and detailed directions.
​​Google Maps HERE

History

Initial Establishment (1870): The Rose Island Lighthouse is a historic beacon located on an 18.5-acre island in Narragansett Bay, just off the coast of Newport, Rhode Island. Built in 1870 atop the remnants of Fort Hamilton—a coastal defense fortification dating back to 1798.  The lighthouse has served as a vital navigational aid for vessels traversing the East Passage of the bay.
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During World War I, Rose Island was temporarily converted into a quarantine station for soldiers returning from Europe with the Spanish Flu or other illnesses. Tents and temporary facilities were set up around the old fort area to isolate sick troops before they were allowed to return to the mainland.

The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1971 following the construction of the nearby Newport Bridge, which rendered it obsolete. After years of neglect, the Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation was established in 1984 to restore and preserve the lighthouse. By 1993, it was relit as a private aid to navigation, symbolizing the community's dedication to preserving its maritime heritage.

Since its restoration, guests can actually live as lighthouse keepers for a night or even a week. Some guests have reported hearing unexplained noises or feeling a strong presence—especially in the watch room. While there's no official ghost lore, many believe the spirits of old keepers still watch over the island.

Photography
The island is only accessible by boat, with seasonal ferries and private charter options. Once there, you can tour the lighthouse, picnic on the old fort walls, or even become a keeper for the night.
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LENS - 24mm to 200mm would create great images.  1/2 Mile Drone Flight from Goat Island