Niantic in East Lyme in New London County, Connecticut — The American Northeast (New England)
McCook Point
The McCooks of Hartford were a distinguished family. During the 1800s the men of the family were known as the "Fighting McCooks."
In 1869, the McCook family purchased 16 acres with 1750 feet of shoreline known as Champlin Point. On this land they built a three-story home and small chapel with panoramic views of Niantic Bay and long Island Sound. The family welcomed community members to enjoy picnics, tea parties, sporting activities and summer camp on the renamed "McCook Point."
When the McCooks decided to sell their land they declined a generous offer in favor of land preservation. The property was purchased in December 1953 by the Town of East Lyme for a town park. The agreement between the McCooks and the town required that the buildings be demolished if they could not be maintained. They were torn down. To this day, townspeople and visitors can enjoy McCook Point park and beach year-round thanks to family generosity and town foresight. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, park passes are required. These can be purchased through the East Lyme Parks and Recreation Department.
Erected by East Lyme Public Trust Foundation, Inc.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Parks & Recreational Areas • War, US Civil. A significant historical month for this entry is December 1953.
Location.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 3 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. The Hole in the Wall (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); A Place for Play (about 400 feet away); The Iron Horse (about 700 feet away); East Lyme Veterans Memorial (approx. 0.2 miles away); East Lyme Honor Roll (approx. 0.2 miles away); A Glimpse into the Past (approx. 0.2 miles away); East Lyme (approx. 0.4 miles away); Bride Brook (approx. 2.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in East Lyme.
Credits. This page was last revised on March 27, 2024. It was originally submitted on June 30, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 121 times since then and 37 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 30, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
