Rhode Island is a very historical state, with a history as one of the original thirteen colonies. Historical sites in Rhode Island range from Native American, colonial to 19th and twentieth century landmarks. Here are just a few of the historical sites visitors to Rhode Island may encounter
Mount Hope Farm. This historical site, registered as a National Historical Landmark, is a 200 acre farm bordered by salt water of the Hope and Narragansett Bays. Founded by almost a hundred years before the Revolutionary war by a Rhode Island colonial official, the farm is open for visitor who will appreciate the nature and wildlife, the jogging and walking trails as well as tours of the facilities. The area is also rentable for weddings and other functions. Located in Bristol, home of the world’s oldest 4th of July parade. http://www.mounthopefarm.com/
First Baptist Church. Ever wonder where the first Baptist Church in America was founded? And I don’t just mean First Baptist as in the sub-denomination, I mean the actual first ever Baptist church in America. Well, turns out it was founded in Rhode Island by none other than famous dissenter Roger Williams, who got kicked out of Massachusetts because of his religious beliefs. People can now tour this historical church, located in Providence and still operational. The church has been a meeting place attended by Civil War soldiers, state officials and abolitionists. For more information check the website. http://www.fbcia.org/index.htm
Smith’s Castle. Connected to the history of white settlers meeting with the local Narragansett tribe this farm now offers tourists a look at life through period-costumed docents and an onsite museum. There are also gardens to walk through dating back to the 18th century. www.smithscastle.org
RI State House. This 19th century domed building is the most prominent building in the state capital of Rhode Island. Within, the state assembly still meets. There are also historical documents on display and tours available. Located on Smith St, in Providence.
Slater Mill. Go back to the age of the industrial revolution at this Rhode Island landmark, a favorite of school field-trip planners. Located in the former mill town of Pawtucket, MA, Slater Mill Living History Museum commemorates the spot and recreates the functioning of America’s first mass production mills. The site includes re-enactors, tours, and exhibits, plus hands-on activities. Check the website for more information. http://www.slatermill.org/
Rose Island Lighthouse. Rhode Island is famous for its lighthouses, many of which still dot the coast of the state. One of those which is open for public touring is Rose Island which was used during both World Wars. Located on a 18 and a half acre island, Rose Island is just a ferry trip off the coast of Newport. There’s a wild life refuge to check out, too. http://ww.roseisland.org/
Fort Adams Rhode Island calls nothing to mind more than military greatness. Just kidding. But at Fort Adams, visitors can tour some great military history. Dating back to the Revolutionary War, when Newport was occupied by the British for sometime, the fort was in use through WWII. Tours are available and include a look at the onsite museum. People can also rent the fort for special occasion. Imagine that: “Heck with Chucky Cheese, Mom, I want my part at the military fort!” Check the website for more details: http://www.fortadams.org/index.htm
The Breakers. Ah, it’s tough to find a good place to summer in Newport these days. Perhaps the most famous of the many mansions lining the Newport, Rhode Island coast, The Breakers was commissioned in the early 1890s and served as the summer getaway for the rich and ostensibly fabulous Vanderbilt family. The mansion features 70 rooms in Renaissance Style. Don’t miss the grounds, either, and the breathtaking views on the nearby cliffwalk. Other mansions include those with cool names like The Elms, Rosecliff and Marble House. All right, maybe Marble House is a little too on the nose. For more information on tours, check the website: http://www.newportmansions.org/page7016.cfm
