Newport, RI

The town of Newport was settled in 1639, and was incorporated as a city in 1784.

Rhode Island was founded on the basis of complete religious and political freedom, and in Newport, Quakers and Jews found a comfortable haven shortly after its founding. By the early 1700's, commerce, combined with a successful farming and fishing industry, brought great wealth to the community

Newport ships probably developed what became the first resort in British North America when, during the 1720's, sea captains brought passengers from the Carolinas and Caribbean who wished to get away from the heat, fever and humidity of their plantations. 

Newport was one of the five most important settlements in the 13 colonies, sharing that distinction with Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Charlestown.

Newport was the "Birthplace of the Navy", and with private and naval shipping combined, added to the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the community. The finest craftsmen in furniture and silver worked here before the Revolution. Summer visitors enjoyed an advanced cultural society that has continued to this day.

Newport combines three communities in one--the settled community, the Navy (which bases its Naval Education and Training Center here), and the "summer colony." All work in harmony to produce and sponsor events of international importance such as opera and music festivals; the opening of the many opulent mansions to visitors, such as The Breakers, Astors', Belcourt Castle, The Marble House, Rosecliffe and The Elms just to name a few; and outstanding exhibits and performances of the visual and performing arts.

The city claims more standing buildings built before 1830, than any American community. Many are open to visitors, such as the Old Colony House, the nation's second oldest capitol building; the Redwood Library, the oldest library building in continuous use; the Touro Synagague, America's oldest Jewish house of worship; the armory of the Artillery Company of Newport, the oldest, active military organization in the country; and several examples of Colonial residential architecture such as the Hunter House, which experts agree rates with the nation's top ten.

Contemporary Newport has a variety of museum attractions, including the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the Newport Art Museum, and replicas of two ships recalling the port's part in the Revolutionary War, the colonial Sloop-of-War Providence. There are windjammer cruises out of the port, excursion boats, harbor and city bus tours, the famous cliff walk, scuba diving, surfing, spear fishing, summer theatre, golf, pari-mutual jai alai, tennis and fishing along with numerous yacht races for international, national, regional, or Olympic championships. Its numerous restaurants serve up the best in Rhode Island seafood, and several are known for their continental cuisine.

Town Hall: 43 Broadway Newport, RI 02840
Phone: (401) 846-9600

Website: www.cityofnewport.com

Other Links

Newport Schools
Newport Historical Society
Newport Mansions
Newport County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Newport Chamber of Commerce
Best Read Guide - Newport
Newport Harbour Guide
Salve Regina University
Bowen's Wharf
Newport Attractions