New London in New London County, Connecticut — The American Northeast (New England)
Athena Stands Watch
Photographed By Michael Herrick, February 16, 2023
1. Athena Stands Watch Marker
Bronze 2018
Renée Rhodes
New London & the Sea
Athena welcomes visitors to Nameaug, or "fishing place," the Pequot name that reflects the connections between this place, its people and the ocean.
Home to the Navy during the Revolution and Fort Trumbull in the 19th century, New London began hosting submarine research and training in the 20th century. It houses Coast Guard activities including educating future officers at the Coast Guard Academy and aboard the Barque Eagle.
Against a backdrop of military, fishing and other maritime enterprises, New London emerged as one of the largest 19th-century whaling communities. Its federal Custom House testifies to its importance for trade. In 1839 the schooner La Amistad was delivered with 53 captive Africans, setting off a dramatic court case prosecuted by abolitionists to humanize the slavery issue.
Wealth from oil and other products from whales' bodies fostered industries and the city's distinctive architecture. In 1889, the world's longest railroad drawbridge first linked New London and Groton across the Thames River. The city remains a transportation hub as ferries and trains,
this page online
Recreation joined work as a reason to turn seaward, transforming beaches into places of pleasure. The Waterfront Park opened the downtown harborside to residents and tourists in 2001. Festivals and the Thames River Heritage Park celebrate the maritime past in a city whose future remains connected to the ocean.
Creative Team: Tammy Daugherty, Vincent Scarano, Chad Frost, Jeff Paprocki, Helen M. Rozwadowski
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Anthropology & Archaeology • Arts, Letters, Music • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical year for this entry is 2018.
Location. 41° 21.165′ N, 72° 5.8′ W. Marker is in New London, Connecticut, in New London County. Marker is at the intersection of Green Street and Pearl Street, on the left when traveling west on Green Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: New London CT 06320, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Starr Street (within shouting distance of this marker); 181 Bank Street (within shouting distance of this marker); First Step to Freedom (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); 194 Bank Street (about 300 feet away); 133 Bank Street (about 300 feet
Photographed By Michael Herrick, February 16, 2023
2. Athena Stands Watch Marker
Photographed By Michael Herrick, February 16, 2023
3. Athena Stands Watch Marker
Photographed By Michael Herrick, February 16, 2023
4. Athena Stands Watch
Credits. This page was last revised on May 6, 2023. It was originally submitted on February 26, 2023, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut. This page has been viewed 97 times since then and 20 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on February 26, 2023, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.
