About Newport, Rhode Island
Colonial capital of Rhode Island, which was the 1st of the 13 colonies to declare its independence
Newport, Rhode Island was founded in 1639 on Aquidneck Island, which was called Rhode Island at the time. Its eight founders and first officers were Nicholas Easton, William Coddington, John Clarke, John Coggeshall, William Brenton, Jeremy Clark, Thomas Hazard, and Henry Bull.
They were a group of religious refugees from Massachusetts who had initially settled at the northern end of the island. Newport was the colonial capital of Rhode Island, which was the first of the thirteen colonies to declare its independence from England on May 4, 1776.
The British occupied Newport from 1776 to 1779, forcing over half of the town's population to flee. Despite repeated attempts by patriot forces to expel them, the British maintained their occupation until their eventual withdrawal in 1779.
Ultimately, Newport helped lead the way toward the American Revolution and independence. They say Rhode Island is especially haunted because it was one of the 13 original colonies and the Native Indian souls are still not at rest.
Newport stands out for many reasons, but perhaps its most remarkable feature is the extraordinary concentration of preserved historic architecture that still shapes the city’s landscape today. This vivid physical legacy owes much to Newport’s fiery reputation as a center of revolutionary spirit and its centuries-long resistance to royal and parliamentary attempts to regulate its trade.
Many properties in Newport, Rhode Island were listed on the National Register of Historic Places after surveys were conducted following the passage of the National Historic Preservation Act in 1966.
Newport is home to the oldest ballpark in America, Cardines Field. The town also has one of the highest concentrations of colonial homes in the nation. Newport also has the Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the United States.
One of the towns’s most famed attractions, Cliff Walk affords breathtaking scenery with 3.5 miles of rocky coastline and crashing waves on one side, and stunning Gilded Age mansions on the other.
The historic coastal towns hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, food and wine festivals, and sailing regattas. The Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival are particularly well-known and draw top musical acts from around the world.
The annual Newport Winter Festival is also a popular event. It is a 10-day festival featuring over 150 events and activities, including food competitions, ice sculpting, music, and more.
Today, Newport's historic downtown area features cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, and a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Visitors can explore art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants serving fresh seafood and other local specialties.
Newport Harbor is a bustling waterfront area lined with shops, restaurants, and marinas. Visitors can take boat tours, go sailing, or simply stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views.
Overall, Newport, Rhode Island offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking a coastal getaway with plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy.