More than two-and-a-quarter centuries since the first assembly of the Supreme Court in 1790, neither of the other two branches of government bears as close a resemblance to its original form as the highest American court. Even as its number of justices and gender and racial makeup evolved over generations, the Supreme Court’s core responsibility […]
History
Posted inHistory
Former jobs of every Supreme Court justice
Since its establishment in 1789 by the U.S. Constitution, the U.S. Supreme Court has seen 17 chief justices, and 116 justices in total. Many landmark cases have passed through the Supreme Court of the U.S. (SCOTUS), having set precedents and changed the fabric of society. Stacker compiled an account of the educational and professional history […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History
Where US first ladies went to college
Harvard. Princeton. Yale. These elite alma maters ooze a sense of ambitious intellect—and yet several women alumni who went on to become residents at the White House are remembered more for their fashion sense, flair for interior design, or holiday decorating. Despite the fact they are unelected officials, the wives of American presidents wield enormous […]
Posted inArts & Culture
This Day in RI History: April 2, 1952, Lynyrd Skynyrd Bassist Leon Wilkeson is born in Newport
Musician Leon Wilkeson was born on April 2, 1952, in Newport, RI. He grew up in Jacksonville, FL and went on to become the main bass player in the southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd in the 1970s, the heydey of the band. Wilkeson was originally recruited by Ronny Van Zandt to play in the Van […]
Posted inHistory
VIDEO: ‘The Real Story’ behind The Old Stone Mill in Newport
There are many stories and many theories circling about the ever-popular and mysterious rock structure in Touro Park at the top of the hill bordering Bellevue Avenue in Newport. Known as the Old Stone Mill (also referred to as the Newport Tower) some theories date back to the days of Vikings. Many historic groups, individuals, […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Lecture on March 23 will spotlight Newport’s first Irish mayor, Patrick J. Boyle
The Museum of Newport Irish History announces the fifth and final talk in its 20th Annual Michael F. Crowley Lecture Series, to be presented “virtually,” via Zoom, and in-person, at the Wayfinder Hotel, on Wednesday, March 23 at 6:00 p.m. Guest speaker, Steve Marino, local historian and tour guide, will present a lecture with Q&A to follow […]
Posted inHistory
Portsmouth group forms non-profit to spotlight Rhode Island’s role in the Revolutionary War
As the U.S. and Rhode Island prepare for the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, a new non-profit organization based out of Portsmouth has been formed to spotlight the role of Rhode Island in the War for Independence. The Battle of Rhode Island Association (BoRIA) shares in a press […]
Posted inHistory
Rhode Island Slave History Medallions receives $10,000 grant from Rhode Island Foundation
Newport-based Rhode Island Slave History Medallions is among nonprofits across the state that will share $105,000 in grants from the Rhode Island Foundation through its Black Philanthropy Bannister Fund. Created in 2007, the fund supports the needs of the state’s Black community. Rhode Island Slave History Medallions will receive $10,000 to expand its Marking the Landscape […]
Posted inOpinion
Just my Opinion: Remembering the Blizzard of ‘78
This story was originally published on February 5, 2018, it has been republished because of its historical significance. The predictions were far less than the outcome. As the storm was forming 44 years ago on February 5, 1978, it was supposed to be heavy, ending on the evening of Feb. 6. It didn’t. It went […]
Posted inHistory
Celebrate Black History Month with virtual learning opportunities
The Southern Poverty Law Center’s Black Affinity Group has prepared a special calendar of virtual events and resources in celebration of Black History Month. These events include virtual sessions that share Black history, achievements and perseverance in various contexts. Although it is common to focus on slavery, segregation and other forms of oppression during Black […]
Posted inHistory
Has Captain Cook’s ship Endeavour been found? Debate rages, but here’s what’s usually involved in identifying a shipwreck
John McCarthy, Flinders University The Australian National Maritime Museum has announced a shipwreck found in Newport Harbour, off Rhode Island in the United States, has been confirmed as Captain Cook’s ship, HMB Endeavour. There have been very similar announcements made over the years but have they finally made a definitive case? By making its announcement, […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Samuel Slater Experience announces Grand Opening March 4
[Webster, MA, January 26, 2022] –The Samuel Slater Experience, a historic museum featuring state-of-the-art 4-D digital technology to tell the story of Samuel Slater, the beginnings of the American Industrial Revolution, and the founding of Webster, Massachusetts in the early 19th century, announced today it will be opening its doors to the public on Friday, March 4, 2022 […]
Posted inWeather
Why we’ll never experience a storm like the “Blizzard of ’78” again
The Blizzard of ’78 was a touchstone event for Rhode Islanders who experienced it. We were all impacted in some way, whether stuck on the highway and forced to abandon our cars, trapped at work or school for several days, or shoveling out neighbors who couldn’t open their front doors due to high snowdrifts. We […]
Posted inHistory, Sports
Athletes from Rhode Island who’ve competed in Winter Olympic Games
With the XXIV Olympic Winter Games scheduled to start in Beijing on February 4th, we take a look back on Rhode Islanders who’ve competed in the Olympic Winter Games of years past. Marissa Castelli and her former partner, Simon Shnapir, atop the medal podium at the 2013 U.S. Championships. Source: Wikipedia Marissa Castelli Sport: Figure Skating […]
Posted inHistory
Reflections on Martin Luther King Day 2022
“The time is always right to do what is right.” I entered Kindergarten in the Fall of 1968 at the newly renamed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School, a school that continues to educate a diverse population in the Mount Hope neighborhood in Providence. King had been assassinated the previous Spring, and the school took […]
Posted inHistory
This Day in RI History: November 4, 1928 – Poet Hannah Weiner is born
Poet Hannah Finegold Weiner was born in Providence on November 4, 1928. Weiner became a well-known writer in the 1960’s, part of the avant-garde Language Poet movement. Weiner graduated from Classical High School in 1946 and went on to Radcliffe College, class of 1950 (magna cum laude), where she wrote a dissertation on Henry James. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
History in the Making: George Wein, Newport Jazz and the Civil Rights Movement
Note: In 2015, Lifestyle Editor Ken Abrams prepared this piece for the Newport Jazz Festival blog. We’re re-posting an edited version today in honor of the late George Wein. Daily headlines remind us that the nation is still struggling with its legacy of slavery, prejudice, and discrimination. The Newport Jazz Festival (along with its sister […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Upcoming lecture will explore shared Irish and African Heritage experience in Gilded Age Newport
The Museum of Newport Irish History has announced the first talk in its 20th Annual Michael F. Crowley Lecture Series, to be presented “virtually” on Monday, September 13, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom. Dr. John Quinn and Mr. Keith Stokes will present a talk entitled, “Shared Spaces: The Irish and African Heritage Experience in Gilded Age […]
Posted inHistory
On This Day In Newport History – September 9, 1957: President Eisenhower signs Civil Rights Act of 1957 while in Newport
On September 9, 1957 while in Newport, President Dwight Eisenhower signed the first workable civil rights legislation to be passed since the reconstruction period. The Civil Rights Act of 1957 is known as the first federal civil rights legislation passed by the United States Congress since the Civil Rights Act of 1875. Its purpose was to show the federal government’s support […]
Posted inHistory
This Day in RI History: September 5, 1874 Nap Lajoie born in Woonsocket
Baseball Hall of Famer Napolean Lajoie was born on September 5, 1874 in Woonsocket, RI. His family moved to the area from Canada to work in the mills, first settling in Vermont and later in Woonsocket where Lajoie was born. As a youth, he had very little schooling and worked in a textile mill where […]
Posted inHistory, News
Graves of Fallen French Revolutionary Soldiers to be honored with an unveiling ceremony at Trinity Church on September 10
The National Park Service will hold a special public ceremony to unveil the grave markers of two fallen French soldiers of the American Revolution. According to Johnny F. Carawan, Trail Administrator for the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, the ceremony will take place at Trinity Church in Newport on Friday, September 10 from 2:00 […]
Posted inHistory
Restoration of Butts Hill Fort begins
By Butts Hill Fort Restoration Committee The first step on the road to celebrating the restoration of Butts Hill Fort was taken today. Carl Viveiros of CJ Viveiros Landscaping spent the day on his ground shark brush cutter clearing vegetation within the Fort. “I’m proud to be working on this project,” Carl said, referring to […]
Posted inCOVID-19
Benjamin Franklin’s fight against a deadly virus: Colonial America was divided over smallpox inoculation, but he championed science to skeptics
Mark Canada, Indiana University Kokomo and Christian Chauret, Indiana University Kokomo Exactly 300 years ago, in 1721, Benjamin Franklin and his fellow American colonists faced a deadly smallpox outbreak. Their varying responses constitute an eerily prescient object lesson for today’s world, similarly devastated by a virus and divided over vaccination three centuries later. As a […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Gravestones to return to Newport
By Lew Keen, Chair of Newport Historic Cemetery Advisory Commission Twenty-five years ago, Professor Ron Onorato engaged his students at the University of Rhode Island to return slate gravestones to Newport that had found their way to other locations. 14 stones were not returned and served as an important study collection for many students interested […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Art Museum to present ‘Scandalous Conduct | 1919 Newport’
Newport Art Museum will present Scandalous Conduct | Newport 1919 on Thursday, June 24, 2021 from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. Interdisciplinary artists Jason Tranchida and Matthew Lawrence will give a fascinating talk, uncovering a little-known facet of Naval culture in 1919 Newport. Focused on the US Navy’s use of musical theater as a marketing tool, they’ll also touch on the […]
Posted inNews
Photo Gallery: “Boots on the Ground” returns to Fort Adams State Park
Operation Stand Down Rhode Island’s “Boots on the Ground” is on display at Fort Adams State Park for Memorial Day weekend. The display honors over 7000 Americans who have given their lives during the ongoing Global War on Terror. The memorial will be open to the public Sunday until 8PM and Monday from 8AM to […]
Posted inHistory
Museum of Newport Irish History to re-open for 2021 season on Memorial Day Weekend
The Museum of Newport Irish History Interpretive Center will open for the 2021 Season on Friday, May 28 from 12 noon to 5:00 p.m. Initial seasonal hours will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from noon to 5:00 p.m., through Sunday, October 31. Updates to the schedule may be found at newportirishhistory.org. All visitors are asked […]
Posted inFood & Drink
25+ longest-running restaurants in and around Newport
This story was originally published on September 25, 2015. It has been updated and republished. Last updated: March 25, 2021 There are many Newport restaurants that have survived new ownership, economic meltdowns, hurricanes, the American Revolution, millions of tourists and the test of time. Many of these restaurants are filled with history and are considered […]
Posted inArts & Culture
The truth about St. Patrick’s Day
James Farrelly, University of Dayton In 1997, my students and I traveled to Croagh Patrick, a mountain in County Mayo, as part of a study abroad program course on Irish literature I was teaching for the University of Dayton. I wanted my students to visit the place where, each July, thousands of pilgrims pay homage […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Museum of Newport Irish History Lecture to discuss the role of the Irish in building the Blackstone Canal
The Museum of Newport Irish History announces the fourth talk in its 19th Annual Michael F. Crowley Lecture Series, to be presented “virtually” on Tuesday, March 16 at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom. Chuck Arning, an award-winning public historian with nearly twenty-five years’ experience as an interpretive ranger with the National Park Service, will present a talk entitled:“How Hard Would it […]
Posted inArts & Culture
How The French Saved America: Newport Historical Society to host a virtual talk with author Tom Shachtman
French assistance was critical to America’s fight in the Revolutionary War, but the full story of France’s involvement is not often discussed. On Thursday March 25, 2021 at 5pm, the Newport Historical Society will host Tom Shachtman, author of How the French Saved America: Soldiers, Sailors, Diplomats, Louis XVI, and the Success of a Revolution, […]
Posted inColumns, History
Gerry Goldstein: Two jewels: ‘Satchel’ and Cardines Field
Baseball’s recent elevation of the old Negro Leagues to major league status was a long time coming, and recalls an era when barnstorming Negro teams played in Rhode Island, at sites including venerable Cardines Field in Newport. The decision by Major League Baseball, which came shortly before Christmas, acknowledged that racism denied many a superb […]
Posted inNews
Reflections on Martin Luther King Day 2021
I entered Kindergarten in the Fall of 1968 at the newly renamed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School, a school that continues to educate a diverse population in the Mount Hope neighborhood in Providence. King had been assassinated the previous Spring, and the school took on his name and his mission soon after. My Kindergarten […]
Posted inHistory
Newport Historical Society to continue ringing Colony House bells every Friday at noon
Following up on a successful event last week, the Newport Historical Society today announced that they will continue to ring the bells at the Colony House until further notice. “On Fridays listen for the ringing of the Colony House bells on Washington Square as a reminder that we are all in this together!,” the Newport Historical […]
Posted inHistory, Opinion
Reflections on Martin Luther King Day 2020
I entered Kindergarten in the Fall of 1968 in the newly renamed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School, a school that continues to educate a diverse population in the Mount Hope neighborhood in Providence, RI. King had been assassinated the previous Spring, and the school took on his name and his mission soon after. My […]
Posted inArts & Culture, City & Government, History
Newport, Brown University researchers team up to map historic African-American burying ground
The City of Newport announced today that God’s Little Acre, one of America’s largest and most intact burial sites for colonial era Africans and African-Americans, may soon be more easily navigable thanks to the efforts of a team from Brown University. The City’s Historic Cemetery Advisory Commission announced on Monday that work is underway on […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
‘The Newport Bridge: A Rhode Island Icon’ will premiere on Rhode Island PBS on December 4th
The Newport Pell Bridge’s 50th Anniversary celebration isn’t over just yet. On December 4 at 7 pm, join Rhode Island PBS will pay tribute to the iconic bridge with the premiere of THE NEWPORT BRIDGE: A RHODE ISLAND ICON. “This Rhode Island PBS original proudly chronicles the celebration of this historic event and puts it […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
Newport Historical Society to host Holiday Open House, Holiday Lantern Tours
Join the Newport Historical Society in celebrating the holiday season. Take a lantern-lit tour of the streets of Newport or sing hymns inside the Colony House before seeing the Christmas in Newport official opening and tree lighting ceremony. Holiday Open House: Start your holiday season with a touch of history at the Colony House on Washington […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History
Irish Museum to present “Ireland’s Jewish Community and Newport’s Irish Rabbi.”
The Museum of Newport Irish History will host the third talk in its 18th Annual Michael F. Crowley Lecture Series on Monday, November 4 at 6:00 pm at the Mainstay Hotel & Conference Center. Three guest speakers, Shai Afsai, Sean O’Callahan, Ph.D., and John F. Quinn, Ph.D., will present a talk entitled “Ireland’s Jewish Community and Newport’s […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
The Moving Wall: Large scale replica of Vietnam Veterans Memorial will be on display in Touro Park this week
The Moving Wall, a half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be on display at Touro Park in Newport from Thursday, September 19th – Monday, September 23rd. Approximately 243 feet in length, the replica has been touring the cities and towns across the US for 34 years leaving an imprint of […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Newport Historical Society lecture will host lecture on Female Revolutionary Resistance
On Thursday September 19, 2019 at 5:30 pm, at the Newport Historical Society Resource Center, Dr. Emily Murphy, Curator for the National Park Service at Salem Maritime National Historical Site, will discuss the political spinning bees of the New England seacoast in the late 1760s and early 1770s, including several that took place in colonial Newport. This […]
Posted inFood & Drink, History
Poll: Which Newport restaurant no longer with us do you miss the most?
For as long as Newport has been established, restaurants have come and gone much to the dismay of their fans and customers. But, there are just some places that we wish were here today, or that we miss now more than ever. On our Facebook Page yesterday we asked “which Newport restaurant no longer with […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
Public welcome to observe artifacts, samples retrieved from Endeavour search
Rhode Island Marine Archaeology Project (RIMAP) announced today that the preliminary evaluation of artifacts and samples retrieved from the potential Endeavour site in Newport Harbor will be open for public observation at their temporary facility on the grounds of Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina. The exhibit will be open from 11 am to 4 pm on August […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Newport Art Museum to host Museum Art Excursion to Salem, MA on October 20th
The Newport Art Museum will host a Museum Art Excursion to Salem, MA on Sunday, October 20, 2019. Guests will depart the Newport Art Museum on a coach bus at 8 am to visit the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) as well as The House of the Seven Gables, and return at approximately 7 pm. Tickets are $150, or $130 for Newport […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
History Space Programming: Newport Historical Society invites you to ‘Visit the Apothecarist’ on Sept. 7
This summer the Newport Historical Society expands the popular History Space initiative with a series of costumed interpretation programs at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House, with expert historical interpreter Seán O’Brien. On dedicated dates in August and September, O’Brien will discuss specific themes relating to colonial Newport while sharing details about early life in this historic seaport. […]
Posted inHistory, News
Newport Firsts – 1769: First overt act of defiance in the original thirteen British North American colonies against Great Britain
The following content was contributed by Brian Stinson, Author of Newport Firsts: A Hundred Claims to Fame. This past July 19th marked the 250th anniversary of the first overt act of defiance in the original thirteen British North American colonies against Great Britain. This accurate claim and predates the burning of the Gaspee in Narragansett […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, News
Search resumes for Captain Cook’s Endeavour in Newport Harbor
The Rhode Island Marine Archaeology Project (RIMAP), the Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM), and the Silentworld Foundation (SWF) announced this week that they have again partnered to continue the study of a Newport (RI) Harbor shipwreck that may be HMB Endeavour. With the 250th Anniversary of Cook’s voyage to Australia approaching in spring 2020, there’s interest […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Frère et Concitoyen: Newport Historical Society lecture will tell the story of William H. Vernon’s years in France
Join the Newport Historical Society for “Frère et Concitoyen”: A Newporter in Revolutionary France, a lecture by Will Simpson, a Buchanan Burnham Summer Scholar in Public History, which will be at the Newport Historical Society Resource Center, 82 Touro Street, Newport, RI, on September 5, 2019 at 5:30pm. The story of William H. Vernon’s years in […]
Posted inHistory, News
Newport on The Rhode Show: Exploring the History within Fort Adams
Our friends from The Rhode Show make the “long” trek to Newport on Friday morning for a live broadcast from Fort Adams. If you happened to miss the show live, you can watch the clips that included live shots from three different areas within Fort Adams at the link below now. https://www.wpri.com/rhode-show/exploring-the-history-within-fort-adams/ Catch The Rhode […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, News
Breakers Landscape Restoration: $1 million phase one completed
via Preservation Society of Newport County The Preservation Society of Newport County announced the completion of phase one of its multi-year, multi-million dollar rehabilitation of The Breakers landscape today. “The revival of The Breakers gardens and grounds is one of the most ambitious projects ever undertaken by the Preservation Society, and will take a number […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History
Recollections of Whitehall: Imagined conversation between Anne Berkeley and William Samuel Johnson to be held on August 15th
In 1767 the widowed Anne Berkeley met William Samuel Johnson, American statesman and signer of the Constitution, president of Kings College (now Columbia University), and son of her husband’s old friend Samuel Johnson. On Thursday, August 15, from 4:30 – 6, The Right Reverend Michael Ipgrave, Bishop of Lichfield (UK), and his wife Dr Julia […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Touro Synagogue will host 72nd annual reading of George Washington’s Letter to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport on August 18th
The 72nd annual reading of George Washington’s historic letter “To the Hebrew Congregation at Newport” will take place on Sunday, August 18th, 2019 at Touro Synagogue. The event is scheduled from 1 pm to 2 pm. The letter, which honors American’s precious freedoms and religious tolerance, continues to be lauded and commemorated as possibly having […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
Life During the Burning of HMS Liberty: Newport’s Old Quarter will come to life on August 24th
Newport’s Old Quarter comes to life on Saturday, August 24, 2019 from noon-5pm, during the Newport Historical Society’s 6th annual summer living history program,Life During the Burning of HMS Liberty. The summer of 2019 marks the 250th anniversary of the burning of HMS Liberty, John Hancock’s sloop that was seized by the Royal Navy in 1768. […]
Posted inHistory, News
Preservation Society awarded $50,000 National Preservation Grant, will help preserve God’s Little Acre
The Preservation Society of Newport County announced today that they have received a $50,000 grant from the National Trust of Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. The Preservation Society says that the grant will assist efforts to preserve Newport’s God’s Little Acre, a nationally significant burial ground, in collaboration with the City of […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
First Freedom Open House: 12 of Newport’s historic houses of worship will open for free tours on July 4th
More than a dozen historic houses of worship will open up their doors on Thursday, July 4th for the First Freedom Open House. During the open house, participants will be able to learn how the building or congregation symbolize Newport’s commitment to freedom of religion and religious diversity. Channing Memorial Unitarian Church135 Pelham Streetwww.channingchurch.orgOpen 10:00 […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
Artillery Company of Newport: A 4th of July tradition
by Daniel J. Cormier | Senior Private, Newport Artillery Company In the early morning hours of July fourth, while most of us will still be sleeping, citizen-volunteers of the Artillery Company of Newport (ACN) will begin arriving to celebrate our nation’s founding. They will assemble at a stone and mortar building that is wedged between […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
City of Newport invites public to take a Guided Tour of Newport’s Common Burying Ground this Summer
via City of Newport The history of one of Newport’s most notable public sites will come into focus this summer as members of the City’s Historic Cemetery Advisory Commission volunteer to provide guided tours of Newport’s Common Burying Ground. The tours, which kick off on Saturday June 29th, will take place through August departing at 10 […]
Posted inHistory
Newport Firsts: Engineering history was made during construction of Newport Pell Bridge with a series of firsts
The Newport Pell Bridge will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Friday, June 28th, 2019. With the celebration just days away, as well as our love for sharing history and fun facts, we turned to Brian Stinson, author of Newport Firsts: A Hundred Claims To Fame, for a look back at this moment in Newport history. NEWPORT […]
Posted inHistory, News
Museum of Newport Irish History Interpretive Center opens for 2019 season on Friday
The Museum of Newport Irish History Interpretive Center has announced that they will open for the 2019 Season on Friday, May 24 at 12 pm. Regular seasonal hours will be Thursday through Sunday, noon to 5:00 pm, through Sunday, October 27. Group and private visits at other times may be arranged by appointment. The Center […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, News
Newport Architectural Symposium will focus on “The Architecture and History of Newport’s Point Neighborhood” on May 25th
Newport is an extraordinary treasure trove of historic architecture spanning from the early days of Colonial settlement of New England and continuing up until the present day. Ten years ago, to help celebrate the amazing breadth and depth of architecture available for visitation here the Newport Architectural Forum in conjunction with the International Tennis Hall […]
Posted inHistory
Newport Firsts: 2019 marks 120th anniversary of first automobile parade in the U.S.
This summer marks the 120th anniversary of the first parade of horseless carriages in the United States, which took place on September 7, 1899 in Newport. With that in mind, as well as the wide array of automobile events and happenings happening in Newport, we turned to Brian Stinson, author of Newport Firsts: A Hundred Claims […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, News
Alliance Francaise to celebrate Rochambeau Monument completion and 75th Anniversary of D-Day
The Alliance Française of Newport will celebrate the completion of the Restoration of The Rochambeau Monument on Thursday, June 6, 2019 at 5:30 p.m. at King Park. AFN will also be celebrating the special bond between the people of France and The United States over the centuries on this day, the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
Newport Historical Society to host lecture with public historian Robert A. Geake
Join the Newport Historical Society for a lecture From Saints to Bootleggers: The Struggle for Temperance and Prohibition in Rhode Island with public historian, Robert A. Geake at the Newport Historical Society Resource Center, 82 Touro Street, Newport RI on Thursday, April 11, 2019 at 5:30 pm. This lecture will illustrate the observations and experiences of […]
Posted inHistory
North Wall at Fort Adams undergoing quarter million dollar restoration
Fort Adams Trust has announced that the North Wall at Fort Adams is undergoing a quarter million dollar restoration process to preserve it from the elements. Led by Gnazzo Construction, crews on sky lifts and scaffolding are cleaning and mortaring stone joints on the top of the wall and installing a Helifix crack stitching system […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Newport Historical Society Walking Tours start April 1st
Join the Newport Historical Society on a Walking Tour of downtown Newport, RI starting April 1, 2019 through May Friday-Monday. Purchase tickets online at NewportHistoryTours.org or call 401-841-8770. $15 per person, $10 Newport Historical Society members, active duty and retired military with ID; $5 for children ages 5-12. Tours depart at 10:30am from the Museum […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
Black History Exhibit & Reception opens on March 29th at St. George’s
St. George’s School has announced that they have launched the “Beloved Community Initiative,” an educational program comprised of events focused on the history and legacy of race and slavery in the United States and Rhode Island. Before the American Revolution, Newport was the largest and most active slave port in British North America. “The Beloved […]
Posted inHistory
Archi-Text: The role of Broadway and Washington Square in the traditional life of Newport
This past weekend more than 10,000 residents and tourists descended upon Washington Square and the Broadway district for the third annual Broadway Street Fair. Merchants set up stands, musicians performed at a series of stages, and food vendors and restaurants fed the hungry and thirsty throngs of people. This is very appropriate because, since Newport’s […]
Posted inHistory
George Wein, the father of outdoor music festivals, turns 93
George Wein, the iconic producer of the Newport Folk Festival and Newport Jazz Festival, was born on October 3rd, 1925, meaning he turns 93 years young today. George Wein is considered to be as much a legend as his festivals. Through his company, Festival Productions, he has spearheaded hundreds of music events since 1954 when he […]
Posted inHistory
MLK’s vision matters today for the 43 million Americans living in poverty
This article was originally published on The Conversation, it has been republished with permission. On April 4, 1968, Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, while fighting for a 10-cent wage increase for garbage workers. These efforts by King were part of a broader and more sustained initiative known as the Poor People’s Campaign. King was working […]
Posted inHistory
Newport County Branch of NAACP to commemorate 50th Anniversary of MLK’s assassination
NAACP, Newport County Branch is hosting a Commemoration Ceremony on the 50th Anniversary of the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center in Newport on April 4. Branch members will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Branch office at 72 E Dr. Marcus F. […]
Posted inHistory
10 things to know about the real St. Patrick
Lisa Bitel, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences On March 17, people around the world will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by parading in green hats, sporting images of shamrocks and leprechauns – tiny, grinning, fairy men – pinned to their lapels. Patrick’s picture will adorn greeting cards: an aged, bearded bishop in flowing […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Meet an 18th Century Doctor: Newport Historical Society to host a living history talk with Dr. Hunter
Newport is a city known for firsts. Between 1755-1756 the first anatomical and surgical lectures in the Colonies were presented by Dr. William Hunter at the Colony House. On Thursday, February 15, 2018, at 5:30 pm, the Newport Historical Society will recreate aspects of Dr. Hunter’s talk when they host an 18th-century medical lecture. Dr. Hunter, […]
Posted inHistory
Podcast: A conversation with Ruth Taylor, Executive Director of Newport Historical Society
Since 1854, the Newport Historical Society has collected and preserved five centuries of history and continues to document Newport’s unique contribution to our national narrative. Ruth Taylor, Executive Director of Newport Historical Society, joined me on What’sUpNewp Radio Edition on AM 1540 WADK today to chat about all that’s happening, new and to do with the multi-faceted history-based […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Holiday Happenings for the Newport Historical Society’s Museum of Newport History Shop
The Newport Historical Society announces the opening of its webstore www.shopnewporthistory.com which launched November 3, 2017, upcoming holiday happenings, and its participation in the first annual international Museum Store Sunday on November 26, 2017. Online Store The Newport Historical Society is excited to offer patrons all over the world an opportunity to purchase unique and inspired gifts, while supporting the […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History
Replica of Volume of Newport’s African Union Society Records Produced
The Newport Historical Society has announced that they have worked with local bookbinder James Currier to produce a replica of a volume of 18th-century records from Newport’s African Union Society. The African Union Society (AUS) was formed in 1780 by free African Americans seeking to create a mutual aid organization to benefit its members, according […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
‘Encountering Wonders’ exhibition to feature natural and virtual galleries of curious Newport artifacts
A collection of historic and curious Newport artifacts displayed in both natural and virtual environments will be featured in a public exhibition at Salve Regina’s Dorrance Hamilton Gallery from Nov. 9-21. The multi-media exhibition, “Encountering Wonders: A Virtual Cabinet of Curiosities from Newport Collections,” will open with a public reception from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 9 at the gallery, […]
Posted inFood & Drink, History
OpenTable unveils ’13 Spookiest Restaurants’, White Horse Tavern lands on the list
OpenTable today announced the 13 Spookiest Restaurants in America. Spanning from coast-to-coast, each of these restaurants denotes a wide variety of cuisine and culture, served with a side of fun and fright. In the spirit of the season, these restaurants pay homage to their histories and haunted pasts with delicious seasonal fare and ample storytelling. […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
Author Don Hagist will host discussion in Newport on October 19th
In December of 1776, a large British military force established a post in Rhode Island, headquartered in Newport. Throughout 1777, the soldiers and sailors who had come to drive out “rebels” settled into a tense coexistence with an independence-minded civilian population that loathed their presence. On Thursday, October 19, 2017 at 5:30 pm, join author Don Hagist […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health, History, Things To Do
Naval War College to host World War I period-accurate baseball game between Army-Navy at Cardines Field
The Naval War College has announced that they will host a period-accurate baseball game between Army-Navy on Friday, September 29th at Cardines Field in downtown Newport. The program is designed as “a fun event” with educational programming to mark the centennial of American involvement in World War I, and is being organized in close collaboration […]
Posted inHistory, News, Things To Do
Newport Historical Society to host ‘Cider in 18th Century Newport: A History Space Event’ on September 23
On Saturday, September 23, 2017, join the Newport Historical Society for “Cider in 18th Century Newport: A History Space Event.” This free, interactive program features cider press demonstrations from expert Chris Hurley from 10 am-2 pm and the specialty walking tour “Rum and Revolution” at 11 am. Peek inside the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House and learn about life in 18th century Newport. Hear Chris […]
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7 Newport museums collaborate on ’36 Hours in Newport’, a new tourism marketing site
36 Hours in Newport RI is enough time to see museums, go swimming or boating, sleep in luxury and eat very well. It is also the name of a new website, 36HoursInNewportRI.com, offering free promotion of Newport and Bristol County events, activities, businesses, attractions, eateries, artisans, musicians, tour providers, arts and entertainment – just about anyone who […]
Posted inHistory
On This Day In Newport History: Nation’s First Jail Sentence For Speeding Handed Down
On August 28, 1904, the nation’s first jail sentence for speeding in an automobile was handed down in Newport, RI. Judge Darius Baker imposed the offender to a sentence of five days for traveling at 15 miles per hour. A jail term was especially harsh because automobile traffic laws were still new. Although laws against galloping […]
Posted inHistory
Cities across the nation are considering removing Christopher Columbus statues, should Newport?
The recent violence in Charlottesville, racial tension across the nation and the current state of national politics has ignited (or reignited) a debate in State Houses, City Halls, Town Halls and in neighborhoods across the United States about monuments in local communities.Confederate-era and other controversial figures New York City, Buffalo, San Jose, San Francisco, Detroit and several […]
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Fort Adams Trust will host Civil War Reenactment this weekend
On Saturday, August 26th and Sunday, August 27th the Fort Adams Trust will host a Civil War Living History Reenactment within the walls of Historic Fort Adams. This two-day event includes Civil War living history activities bringing the sights and sounds of the Civil War to Newport. Events will begin at 9 a.m. on both days and include reenactors […]
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Annual Reading of George Washington’s Letter at Touro Synagogue Set for August 20th
The annual reading of George Washington’s historic letter “To the Hebrew Congregation at Newport” will take place on Sunday, August 20th, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at Touro Synagogue. The letter, which honors American’s precious freedoms and religious tolerance, continues to be lauded and commemorated as possibly having the greatest impact on America and American Jewry. Light […]
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Revolutionary War Re-Enactment To Be Held in Downtown Newport on August 26th
On the afternoon of August 26, 2017, from noon to 5 pm, the Newport Historical Society will host its largest re-enactment yet—a British invasion inspired by events from the summer of 1777. The multi part program will feature something for everyone: re-enactment scenarios, a walking tour with rum tasting, and a family-friendly Spy Challenge. The British Occupation […]
Posted inCity & Government, History
Representative Carson to host Constituent Meeting at Artillery Company on August 8th
Representative Lauren Carson (D-Dist. 75, Newport) has announced that she will hold her summer constituent meeting on Tuesday, August 8th at 6:30 p.m. at the Artillery Company of Newport. “I enjoy holding constituent meetings throughout the year as a means for gathering ideas for my work at the State House, and as a way to inform myself […]
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Re-Live Jackie & JFK’s Newport Wedding at St. Mary’s Church
Each Tuesday at 3 pm, beginning July 11 and continuing through October 2017, one can now re-live that special day of September 12, 1953, when Jacqueline Bouvier married then Senator John F. Kennedy at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Spring Street in Newport. The Return to Camelot presentation features vintage film clips and a live performance of the music and hymns of […]
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Newport Historical Society’s Largest Reenactment to Date Will Focus on 1777 British Occupation
The Redcoats are coming! The Newport Historical Society invites the public to join them on Saturday, August 26, 2017, from noon until 5 pm for its largest reenactment to date, the 1777 British Occupation. During this free program, over 75 costumed interpreters will recreate aspects of life during the summer of 1777 in the heart of Newport’s Old Quarter. […]
Posted inHistory, Things To Do
Step Into Revolutionary History with the Newport Historical Society on July 15th
Newport Historical Society invites the public to join them for “Newport in 1777: A History Space Event” on Saturday, July 15th, an event that will focus on life during the British army and navy’s presence in the city during the American Revolution, and feature the period artisanship of leather working expert Roy Najecki. Leather was […]
Posted inHistory
Annapolis to Host Next Edition of ‘Keeping History Above Water’
The Newport Restoration Foundation and the City of Annapolis have announced that the official program for the second Keeping History Above Water conference has been finalized to take place on October 29 – November 1, 2017 in Annapolis, Maryland. The City of Annapolis will be hosting this The City of Annapolis will be hosting this […]
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Portsmouth Author Publishes History Book, ‘The Ships from Field’s Point’
The Ships from Field’s Point, a new book by C. Roger Wallin, has been released by Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc. The Ships from Field’s Point commemorates an episode of local and regional history that occurred during World War II. At that time, an emergency shipyard was established in a waterfront neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island. […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Newport Historical Society will host Co-Authors of ‘World War II Rhode Island’
Rhode Island’s contribution to World War II vastly exceeded its small size. Newport’s and Aquidneck Island’s contributions alone included the nation’s most important torpedo production facilities, a naval training station for some 500,000 sailors, and a PT boat training center at Melville. Civilians, including for the first time many women, did their part by manufacturing military equipment […]
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Thirteen of Newport’s Historic Houses of Worship Will Participate in ‘First Freedom Open House’ on July 4th
Celebrate the role of Newport’s historic religious communities in developing America’s commitment to Freedom of Religion. In a special celebration of freedom of religion, thirteen of Newport’s historic houses of worship are offering a unique open house tour on the Fourth of July, 2017. The “First Freedom Open House Tour” offers the public an opportunity […]
Posted inHistory
John F. Kennedy at 100: Family Reflects on his 100th Birthday in New Video
John F. Kennedy was born on in Brookline, Massachusetts on May 29, 1917, 2017 marks his 100th birthday. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum has announced a year-long celebration to honor the 100th anniversary of the birth of President John F. Kennedy. Born in Brookline, Massachusetts on May 29, 1917, President Kennedy was […]
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Artillery Company of Newport is Now Offering Tours of Their Military Museum
Here’s your chance to tour the armory and military museum of the Artillery Company of Newport, the oldest military unit in the United States operating under its original charter. The Artillery Company of Newport, chartered in 1741 by the Rhode Island General Assembly during the reign of King George II of Great Britain, is today […]
Posted inHistory
Duchess and Violet Quamino Gravestones Return to Newport’s Common Burying Ground
Two historic gravestones, Duchess and Violet Quamino, have been restored and returned to Newport’s Common Burying Ground, according to Lewis Keen, a member of Newport,s Historic Cemetery Advisory Commission. “Work on these stones was approved by the Historic Cemetery Advisory Commission in December 2016 and lovingly undertaken by Dr. Robert Russell of Salve University. Dr. […]
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Replicas of Two of Christopher Columbus‘ Ships Are Coming to Newport This June
Replicas of Christoper Columbus’ The Niña and Pinta are coming to Newport this June. The Columbus Foundation is sailing the two vessels from Florida to Newport as a new and enhanced ‘sailing museum’, for the purpose of educating the public and school children on the ‘caravel’. The replica ships started their journey in Perdido Key, Florida […]
Posted inHistory, News
City Of Newport Kicks Off Fundraising Campaign to Replace Sign at ‘God’s Little Acre’
Plans are underway to replace the sign that once marked the section of Newport’s historic Common Burying Ground known as God’s Little Acre. The previous sign, lost in a storm in 2011, marked the largest and oldest extant burial ground for enslaved and free Africans in colonial America. Designed by long time Newport residents Theresa […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, News, Things To Do
Newport History Tours Announces 2017 Schedule
Newport History Tours, a partnership between the Newport Restoration Foundation and Newport Historical Society, announces the opening of the 2017 season with a new tour schedule. Visitors interested in the “City by the Sea,” can explore its history on foot with Newport History Tours’ personable guides. The 2017 schedule launches in April, with tours offered […]