The 19th Century Port
Changing Maritime Enterprises
From this bustling port numerous ships set off around the world in search of whales. Marine mammals provided highly sought after oil which fueled the industrial revolution. New London whalemen specialized in hunting elephant seals which also provided plentiful oil. The petroleum industry which started in Pennsylvania in 1859, eventually eliminated the market for oil from sea mammals, ending this type of maritime endeavor.
Throughout the 19th Century luxurious side-wheel steamers carried passengers and cargo the length of Long Island Sound. With the coming of the railroad in mid-century, New London became a regional transportation hub and tourist destination.
Marker is at the intersection of State Street and Bank Street, on the right when traveling west on State Street.
Courtesy hmdb.org
