The Newport Historical Society (NHS) announced today (April 24) a new self-guided, QR code tour of The Colony House, the fourth oldest statehouse still standing in the United States and a key site in Newport’s Revolutionary War history.
The project was made possible thanks to a $149,000 shoulder season tourism grant from Rhode Island Commerce.
“As the nation’s 250th anniversary approaches, the significance of The Colony House takes centerstage,” said NHS Executive Director Rebecca Bertrand. “We’re grateful to Rhode Island Commerce for enabling us to make this property and its fascinating story more accessible and encourage people to come and walk in the footsteps of the patriots who paved the way for American independence.”
Last week, The Colony House served as the backdrop for Two Lights for Liberty, a fundraiser and cocktail party featuring food, drinks, and revolution-inspired revelry that marked the official kickoff the NHS’s celebrations of the 250th anniversary of American independence.
In addition to creating the tour content, the NHS used Commerce grant funds to allow for additional public availability for The Colony House. The property is now open daily from 10am to 4pm.
“Newport has a rich history dating back to the colonial era that attracts visitors from across the globe each year,” said Secretary of Commerce Liz Tanner. “Rhode Island Commerce is proud to support new ways that help educate people of all ages about our treasured economic assets like the Colony House.”
Designed by Richard Munday, who also designed Trinity Church and the Seventh Day Baptist Meeting House in Newport, The Colony House was built between 1739 and 1741 and is one of six incredible properties under the Newport Historical Society’s stewardship. Over nearly three centuries, The Colony House has served as a British barracks and a French hospital during the Revolutionary War, and a courthouse in the early 20th century. It was the site of one of the earliest acts of armed resistance leading to the Revolutionary War, hosted George Washington and Thomas Jefferson in 1790, and played a key role in historic court decisions including the Gaspee Affair and The Dorr Rebellion.