Hear stories of revolution and ruin, struggles for religious liberty and remarkable entrepreneurship among Newport’s diverse people. Tour begins at the Brick Market: Museum & Shop, 127 Thames Street. $15 a person/ $12 w/Newport Winter Festival button/$10 with button for repeat tour guests. Weather permitting; space is limited. (401) 841-8770. Presented by Newport History Tours.
In 1795 a group of enslaved African-Jamaicans were emancipated by Quaker, and Barclay’s Bank founder, David Barclay of London. The group included a boy named October, who also went by the name Robert Barclay. On Thursday October 27, 2016 the Newport Historical Society will host Keith and Theresa Stokes from the 1696 Heritage Group to […]
Mid-eighteenth century Newport resident Martin Howard was known for his outspoken opinions supporting King George. His sympathies towards the crown and views supporting the customs duties relating to the 1765 Stamp Act made him a targeted figure by the Sons of Liberty during the riots that took place that year. While many today might consider […]
In 1777, Newport was occupied by British troops and a blockade prevented trade to the island. A population with a sophisticated palate, used to trade goods from all over the word, was now forced to eat local. What did people eat 240 years ago to survive the harsh winter and war-torn environment? The Newport Historical […]
The Newport Historical Society’s current programming initiative Newport Eats aims to provide historical context for present ideas such as food sustainability, community development, and healthy eating. Keeping to this popular topic, the Society is pleased to host author Sue AnderBois for the February 23rd, 2017 talk The Rhode Island Food Strategy: Context & How It […]
US merchants brought slaves not just to the Caribbean and the North American colonies in the 18th century, but also to labor in South America. American merchants (almost all Rhode Islanders) played a significant role in the trade of slaves from Africa to the Río de la Plata in Argentina and Bolivia. While most enslaved […]
The growth of automobile usage during the twentieth century brought more and more American drivers out on the open road. But refusal of service and other threats made travel extremely difficult for African-Americans. One solution came from Victor H. Green, who between 1937 and 1963 published The Green Book, a guide for African-Americans traveling throughout […]
Described by some scholars as the “first professional orchestra” in the US, the Germania Musical Society toured nationally with the most celebrated virtuosi of the era and played a particularly vibrant role in the cultural landscape of Newport, where they resided each summer during their existence as a touring ensemble. On Thursday, April 6th, at […]
The Newport Antiques Show is a staple of Newport’s summer season and a mecca for collectors with its luxurious atmosphere and sophisticated style. When doors open this July, the Show will celebrate its 11th year with an updated program and new associated activities while visitors discover antiques, art, jewelry, vintage fine accessories and photographs in […]
The next time you pick up a piece of chocolate, consider that you are partaking in an expedition into American history. Alexander Hamilton’s rival, Thomas Jefferson, was a chocolate fan. John and Abigail Adams also loved their chocolate. Hamilton’s boss, President George Washington, along with his wife, Martha, was well acquainted with chocolate. But what […]
