A historic lighthouse on Prudence Island has been transferred to a new owner, a move that will help preserve the building’s history and enhance public safety.
The Sandy Point Lighthouse was originally built in Newport Harbor in 1823 and then moved to Prudence Island in Portsmouth in 1851. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.
“I am pleased to be on Prudence Island today to celebrate two pieces of great news for the community: the preservation of Rhode Island’s oldest working lighthouse through the stewardship of the Prudence Conservancy, and the dedication of PIVFD’s new fire engine which will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Island’s brave volunteer firefighters,” said Senator Jack Reed.
The building’s new owner, the Prudence Conservancy, will help manage the lighthouse and ensure its preservation for future generations.
The Prudence Island Volunteer Fire Department (PIVFD) also celebrated the occasion with the dedication of its new pumper truck. The new truck is equipped with modern safety features and will be used to enhance the safety of firefighters and the public.
The $357,142 federal grant that was provided by the U.S. Department of the Interior will help pay for the acquisition of the new truck.
The new pumper truck will be a critical piece of equipment for the volunteer fire department, especially considering the geographically isolated location of the island. It will be used to help transport firefighters and equipment, as well as assist with wildfire mitigation efforts.
“Prudence Island is a gem in the middle of Narragansett Bay,” said Senator Reed. “By celebrating its rich history through the conveyance of Sandy Point Lighthouse to a dedicated local nonprofit, we are ensuring that the heritage of Prudence Island can be shared with residents and visitors for generations to come.”
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.