2014 FALL EVENTS EXHIBITS (See page 6 for exhibit information.) Flowers of the Ocean: We say Newport is wonderful because it has not changed much, and A History of Seaweed Collecting in Newport often tout the fact that we have about three hundred structures still Through October 2014; Museum of standing that pre-date the Revolution. Visitors love Newport’s timeless Newport History evolution quality and look to us at the NHS to help them understand and interpret that. Certainly historical societies are not The Wanton-LymanR-Hazard HouThes mue seum will highlight Newport’s Past Meets Present: traditionally epicenters of change. Quite the House on Broadway has been contributions to and experience of An Exhibit of Composite Photographs opposit e— we are generally tasked with owned by the Historical Society the era while also stressing the connec - Through October 2014; Colony House preserving and protecting, activities which, for since the 1920s. Presented over tions among local and international the most part, seem to limit change. the years as a traditional house political, cultural and social influ ences. PRESENTATIONS But is our mission in fact to be the museum, the house has been open It will incorporate recent schol arship War, Diplomacy and Power in 17th Century guardians of a static vision of the past? to visitors who are invited to tour on the American Revolution, which New England and Indian Country: Preserving the past is much like forecasting the house and imagine what it was has added the perspectives of African Ninigret, the Niantic and Narragansett Sachem the weather: the universe of potentially like to live in Newport during the Americans, women, the poor, an-d Thursday, October 2, 5:30pm; Colony House relevant information is so huge that the prac - other groups to more tradi tional A lecture with authors David Silverman and Julie Fisher. city’s earliest times. titioner must limit the things to be studies of political and military history. considered, and the data points deemed The Revolution House project will Gentility & Consumerism in 18th Century relevant define the outcome, for good or transform the Wanton-Lyman- Finally, and perhaps most impor - Newport: A Widow’s Story Hazard House into Newport’s tantly, this interpretation will draw Thursday, October 16, 5:30pm; Colony House for ill. We are, as I recently heard at a conference on Heritage and Healthy A lecture with scholar Christina J. Hodge, Ph.D. Communities at the University of Massachusetts, defining what we want only museum devoted to the attention to the Newport Historical our futures to be when we make decisions about what to preserve. In fact, American Revolution. The WLH Society’s remarkable collection of At The Point of a Cutlass we are “curating” our futures by choosing what is important in the past; House is an appropriate venue Revolutionary artifacts, using these Thursday, October 30, 5:30pm; Colony House managing and defining the inevitable change that comes with the passage for this endeavor, as it was the objects to tell local and national stories A lecture with author Gregory Flemming. of time. Which, perhaps, makes historical societies particularly useful to site of activities, and home to in - of the Revolution in a way which will any discussion of managing change. Here in Newport, one could suggest divid uals, significant to the build- appeal to everyone. Revolution House HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE that there is in fact less conflict between studying the past and supporting up to and the conduct of the will debut in a limited opening in the change, as our history is one of innovation and change, beginning with the Monday, December 1, 4-5pm; Colony House Revolution. fall of 2015. A celebration of the season with live music performance earliest settlers who chose to live differently in a new world. by Newport String Project. The staff at the Newport Historical Society has been recreating the Society’s traditional mission by rethinking how we interpret and what we history bytes interpret, how we think of our historic structures and their uses, and how Newport Historical Society we make our collections and data accessible to the public. Our collections committee is also working to redefine what we collect in this modern and Orphaned Gravestones HOURS digital age. We are innovating and we are changing as we work to be Many Newport gravestones have been lost to development, theft and Resource Center responsive and relevant in changing times. vandalism. Stones have been found as far away as Long Island for uses 82 Touro Street, Newport RI 02840 We have also begun the work to transform our Headquarters building such as shoreline erosion control, patio steps and cesspool covers. 401-846-0813 | Tuesday - Friday 9:30 to 4:30 into a modern and attractive Collections Resource Center, using innovative Other stones were rescued from destruction by well-intentioned approaches to egress, climate control and collections storage. Planning is citizens including the three Newport gravestones next to NHS Brick Market: Museum and Shop also continuing for Revolution House at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House, headquarters on Touro Street: 127 Thames Street, Newport, RI 02840 a new vision for a very old house, and a new way to tell an important and GOVERNORS JOHN AND SAMUEL CRANSTON tablet stone 401-841-8770 | Daily 10 to 5 historic story. in two sections 1727. Replaced by a full size reproduction at the Things are changing within the Historical Society as well. Many of us Common Burying Ground 2003. Properties have new titles and new responsibilities, and some valued members of the ELDER WILLIAM BLISS gravestone 1808. Rescued from Bliss graveyard at Green End Avenue, Middletown, lost to For Guided Site Tours see team are moving on to new adventures. You will see evidence of all of the development. William Bliss was a pastor of the Seventh Day Baptist Meeting House. above in the Newsletter that follows. www.NewportHistory.org SAMUEL AND WAITE CARR tablet stone 1739. Rescued from Goat Island Torpedo Station development. www.NewportHistoryTours.org – Ruth S. Taylor, Executive Director Father and daughter died of small pox on the same day.
FRONT COVER : Composite photograph by Lew Keen from the NHS exhibit Past Meets Present. O 3 Challenging the Future
In 2012 the Newport Historical Society initiated a capital campaign, entitled “Challenging the Future,” directed toward three goals which represent the foundation of our envisioned future.
O Development, through modernization of the existing 1915 headquarters building, of a Resource Center for the study, interpretation and understanding of Newport’s history. O Creation of endowed funds to support the functions which are most responsible for providing access to Newport’s history for the public: The Curatorial Collections will be properly stored and protected, and the build - Challenging the Future and Education Departments. ing will function effectively for researchers, visitors and staff. There is no doubt that productivity will increase, and that serv - Campaign Status O A redevelopment of the Museum Store with a ices to researchers and the public will improve along with general vibrant presence at the Brick Market, including collections care, while increases in budget size will be moderate. Campaign Goals: increased retail opportunities. Bricks & Mortar ...... $3,000,000 A museum-specific climate control consultant (William Wladyka) The first phase of the campaign, the modernization of our Education Department ...... $1,000,000 was hired to work with the project architect (NewPort Archi - Resource Center, is underway; work began the first week in Curatorial Department ...... $1,500,000 tecture’s Mohamad Farzan) and his team of engineers to design August, in a phased plan. climate systems for the new building. Wladyka’s plan will allow Total Campaign Goals: ...... $5,500,000 Phase I includes mostly exterior work like the creation of the carrying costs of the new system to be approximately the a new driveway between Touro and Barney Streets, and same as energy costs for heat and light only at the current time, Campaign Status: preparations for the construction of the elevator tower and while still providing a protected and stable environment for Gifts & Pledges ...... $2,115,500 new entrance. Updated electrical service to the building will collections. Total to Raise: ...... $3,384,500 also be supplied. We expect to complete this work before the cold weather comes with minimal disruption to the NHS’ Of course, if you are interested Sources: programs and services. Foundations ...... $1,456,000 in helping complete this effort, Board members ...... $496,500 More extensive work both inside and out will follow, culmi - Other individuals ...... $161,000 nating in a modern, highly functioning Resource Center. please call the NHS office! Totals: ...... $2,115,500
4 O O 5 S Flowers of the Ocean: Headturners A History of Seaweed Collecting in Newport This digital exhibit is free to enjoy by visiting: Through October 2014; Museum of Newport History http://j.mp/headturners Found Flowers of the Ocean is a new exhibit about the historical appeal and The Newport Historical Society is pleased to URBAN AT T A T H process of seaweed specimen collecting. Kate Duffy, 2014 Buchanan/ announce the debut of its latest digital exhibit, | Burnham Fellow at the Newport Historical Society and PhD student at Headturners: Expressions of Social Change through Brown University, served as curator. Millinery Fashion 1790-1970. Available on the NHS The 1950s saw the revival of full skirts,
I which achieved a voluminous quality with The exhibit grew out of Kate’s interest in the world of natural history Explore Historic Newport app, this exhibit focuses tulle petticoats. This Christian Dior turban collecting in late 19th-century Newport. Research in the Newport on a rarely seen subsection of the Society’s large Historical Society collection led her to a box filled with hundreds costume and textile collection. It explores and utilizes the fullness of tulle to create an of dried seaweeds, a vast variety gathered and arranged by different illustrates historical connections between cultural evening-appropriate accessory. The House B collectors. Some collectors identified their seaweeds, labeling each and political eras and events, and their effects on of Christian Dior dominated couture in the one with its Latin name. Another collector used algae to decorate millinery fashions. 1950s and continued to thrive when Yves an album filled with souvenir photographs of the Old Stone Mill, For centuries women’s hats have been essential to Saint Laurent took over following Dior’s I local beaches, and other Newport scenes. the wardrobe and proper dress, conveying informa - death in 1957. “Seaweed collecting was a popular hobby in Newport from about 1850 to 1900, tion about the wearer’s social class, modesty, profession, This hat was rediscovered this summer as especially among women,” explains Kate. “Naturalists pulled seaweeds from the and activities. Long a mandatory element of a respectable Christian Dior turban. our team worked to inventory and rehouse briny depths and pressed them on paper. They considered this to be a wholesome woman’s appearance, hats have become sartorial rarities in our collection of costume accessories. H and uplifting way to spend free time.” By transforming tangles of algae into contemporary culture. In this sampling of millinery objects from the delicate arrangements, collectors expressed their interest in the natural world and Newport Historical Society’s collection, the impact of a variety of social appreciation for its beauty. The algae specimens they gathered became a medium and political events are reflected in the design of each hat. Cover of ‘Sea Mosses’ album, c. 1875 and examples of
X for souvenir crafts and scientific study. seaweed specimens from the NHS collection, c. 1896 1897. -
Past Meets Present: An Exhibit of Composite Photographs 50 Objects that Shaped Rhode Island History… a Selection E Through October 2014; Colony House Loan Exhibit, Newport Antiques Show 2014 Presented by The Newport Historical Society & Photographer Lew Keen Rhode Island may be a small state, but its influence has been felt the world With the popularity of social media, it’s not surprising that the inspiration for over. Founded by settlers unlikely to be welcome elsewhere in the colonies, Newport Historical Society’s exhibit Past Meets Present stemmed from a Rhode Island’s history of innovation in thought, in work, in artistry, at war, and digitally altered photograph that “went viral.” in leisure illustrates what is possible when peoples from around the globe live “In early April, photographer and supporter of the NHS Lew Keen emailed us and work side by side. The source of the American notion of religious freedom, an image that united a late 19th-century view of Thames Street with a modern Rhode Island has also been a cauldron of the American Revolution, the first view from the same perspective,” Executive Director Ruth Taylor explained. port of the American Navy, birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, an inter - “We posted this on Facebook and within a few hours received an overwhelm - national resort, and so much more. ingly positive response.” Rhode Island is a place where rebellious women thrived, where African Inspired by the dozens of shares and “likes” the image received, the Americans created businesses, where artists painted, wrote and composed, Historical Society partnered with Keen to present an exhibit of photographs where intellectuals conversed, and where sportsmen set records. This state based upon this theme. Using selected historic photographs from the NHS has been defined by its relationship to the sea and waterways, its peoples’ will - collection with modern shots of the same location, the exhibit of thirteen ingness to argue and even take up arms over ideas; yet their simultaneous tol - images opened to an appreciative crowd during this year’s Fourth of July erance for difference, their spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship, and their festivities at the Colony House on Washington Square. continued interest in international engagement. These distinguishing charac - teristics are not limited to a single period or region; they are threads that can “As a long-time historic preservationist and a fairly new photographer, I thor - be pulled through time and space. oughly enjoyed creating these visions of Newport's historic streetscapes,” said Keen. “This project places historic images of Newport in the context of what In exploring the idea of the 50 things that shaped Rhode Island’s history, staff visitors see and experience today. I hope that Past Meets Present enhances at the Rhode Island and Newport Historical Societies had the advantage of our appreciation for Newport’s built environment through the overlapping of both organizations holding extraordinary collections on which to draw. The what has been lost with today’s view. Placing images from the past and present collections of the two Historical Societies are Rhode Island’s history embodied. in the same frame helps viewers easily identify the locations. And seeing Look for more of the 50 objects in the months to come. what has been lost in context with what still stands suggests that our role as caretakers of these remarkable treasures has not been without some losses— Roger Williams’ compass, brass, 1630 1683. Collections of Rhode Island Historica-l Society. 1902.3.1 A c. 1885 photograph of the Newport Jail House by Clarence and encourages us to do better for the future.” Stanhope is paired with a contemporary image of the Jail House Inn by Lew Keen, Marlborough Street. “During this year of Newport’s 375th anniversary, Past Meets Present is an ideal way to reflect upon Newport’s remarkable history,” Taylor added. 6 O O 7 ., COLLECTIONS : ONLINE ACCESS Culture as Catalyst: Catalyzing Culture Gladys: Online Collections Database For scholars, researchers, and enthusiastic members of the public. Online catalog of artifacts, photographs and archival collections with keyword and ., advanced searching, as well as some browsing capabilities. While not all collections items Going are represented online as yet, more are continuously added as data is updated and verified. For over a year the executive directors of the Newport Historical There are approximately 7,000 artifacts, photographs, and manuscript items currently Native Society, the Newport Restoration Foundation, the Redwood online. The database also features a randomizer, which allows for fun and unexpected Update On Pinterest-style browsing of NHS collections. Library, the Preservation Society of Newport County, and the the NHS App Rhode Island Historical Society have been quietly meeting. This Finding Aids work, conducted in a variety of locations, and facilitated by staff Explore Historic For serious scholars and researchers. and consultants of the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities, A Newport is now focused originally on a single question: How can we, working to - Completed finding aids for formally arranged archives and manuscript collections. available for gether, all be more successful at telling the story of Newport’s his - imeless This resource allows users to access finding aids in several formats (either PDF or the web download. tory to the broadest possible audience? T via RIAMCO) and features transcriptions or images of archival material when available . iPhones, iPads andAndroid The project, called Culture as Catalyst: Catalyzing Culture and tyle Archives and Manuscripts Collection Inventory devices. Visitors funded throughout by the van Beuren Charitable Foundation, has S For serious scholars and researchers. and residents alike can The Newport Historical Society is pleased to announce a part - completed a year of planning and is now ready to launch three download the app from A PDF available for download that represents the first step in an ongoing process to years of programming to explore many possibilities for deeply nership with historical footwear company American Duchess, either Apple’s AppStore or Android’s provide scholar and researcher access while more formal processing is underway. While collaborative work that serves our community, our organizations, formed to create a pair of women’s dress shoes based on a pair GooglePlay – or continue to and Newport’s history. of Edwardian shoes in the NHS costume collection. this spreadsheet contains many unprocessed or unarranged collections and may contain access the app from the web at incomplete information or inaccuracies, it is the first time in the Society’s history that a This project will engage noted, respected practitioners of relevant www.NewportHistoryApp.com. For the The Seabury shoe, two design concepts are being comprehensive manuscript resource has been made available to the public. disciplines to become visiting catalysts to spend time in Newport. developed: a dove gray version and a version in black. They will Because the free app is so flexible and accommodating, it is also infinitely Catalysts will be artists, scholars or other specialists who have be available for purchase both at the Historical Society’s Brick Newport History Online experience thinking about, practicing and leading innovation. Market Museum & Shop and also online at American- expandable. A newer addition is the Free for NHS members or subscribers. integration of NHS exhibit content, They will work with visiting committees comprised of members Duchess.com. allowing visitors to learn more about of the local community to create a project that relates to Past issues of the NHS’ academic journal, Newport History , are available for download collections items on exhibit as well as Newport’s history and heritage and a new way of looking at it, “This classic design will be great not only for historic costumers through Salve University. Access to this database is a benefit of membership. Year-long the opportunity to virtually visit an thinking about it, or sharing it with the public. Alternatively, the but for everyone,” comments NHS Executive Director Ruth subscriptions can also be purchased for $30. To inquire about subscribing, please call us Taylor. “We are looking forward to wearing these shoes.” at (401) 846-0813. exhibit. We have also started generat - catalysts may examine existing efforts in the history and heritage ing “born-digital” exhibits, curated sector within the City and work with local practitioners to improve The Seabury design is based on a silk and brocade shoe with Digital Exhibits by interns, which highlight their area of and expand these activities. Throughout the next three years, leather sole and 2½ French heel in the Society’s collection. expertise and our collections. Sites also For everyone: historians, scholars, history buffs, Newport residents, tourists. events which provide for the community a window into the It made its way to N"ewport from the Baltimore department continue to be added on a routine activities of the project will also be scheduled. A web presence store O’Neill & Company sometime between the 1890s and As part of Explore Historic Newport, visitors can view current and past exhibits displayed basis, and soon to be added are oral will be a large component of the transparency of the project. 1925. The Seabury’s lines are not only historically accurate but at the Museum of Newport History. Also available are born-digital exhibits on various histories, video, and more exhibit Newport related topics, such as the Common Burying Ground Mapping Project, content.Explore Historic Newport At the end of three years, the Catalyzing Culture project will cul - versatile enough to be worn with modern clothing, according Hurricanes in Newport, and the Consumer Revolution in Newport. replaces the need for museum-loaned minate in the Newport Fair – a grand Newport-wide, multi-format to Lauren Stowell, American Duchess owner and creative devices. Visitors can access tour showcase that blends exhibition and exposition in collaboration director. The reproduction shoe will feature a brocade fabric Explore Historic Newport information from their own personal with local, national and international partners. This event will based on the original shoe’s brocade and created specifically For everyone: historians, scholars, history buffs, Newport residents, tourists. devices. As a supplement to our engage the entire City in a celebration of Newport’s history and for this shoe. It will have a leather heel and front for practical guided tours, users of the app can This web-based app is accessible with any internet-capable device, including desktop heritage. We cannot wait. durability. curate their own experience of historic computers. It synthesizes educational content, such as walking tours and other scholar - Catalyzing Culture will launch for the public on September 19th, Newport, from anywhere in the world, The original owner of the dove gray and seafoam green pump ship, with collections items such as historical photographs. The app’s GPS enabled when the website will become available. We will be linking to the any time of day or night. The history is not known, but she wore a size 6. interactive map pinpoints nearby historic sites. Developed with founding sponsor, site on www.NewportHistory.org, so stay in touch. of Newport is now accessible as Lila Delman Real Estate. Now you can download this app from the Apple AppStore and never before. Android GooglePlay! 8 O To Benefit the Newport Historical Society and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County
Everyone who experiences the Newport Antiques Show understands that it is NEWPORT ANTIQUES SHOW 2014 an opportunity to see and shop for remarkable antiques. But it is also a PRESENTING SPONSOR Mr. and Mrs. David B. Ford fundraiser that is vital to the Newport community. As the country’s only high American Realty Capital-RCS Capital Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Gewirz end antiques show with two beneficiarie s— the Newport Historical Society Mr. and Mrs Stephen L. Glascock and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport Count y— this Show has raised GALA PREVIEW PARTY SPONSOR Franklin & Company Design Associates Mr. and Mrs. Richard H. Gordon a cumulative total of over $1.6 million in support of Newport’s past and Mr. and Mrs. Peter Grauer CHAIR Newport’s future. Mr. and Mrs. S. Matthews V. Hamilton, Jr. Mrs. S. Matthews V. Hamilton, Jr. This year we welcomed American Realty Capital/RCS Capital as Presenting Mrs. Samuel M. V. Hamilton Sponsor, and Franklin & Company Design Associates as the Gala Preview Party HONORARY CO -CHAIRS William M. and Elizabeth Kahane Sponsor. Their generous participation helped to make this Show a great success. Mrs. Robert H. Charles Mr. and Mrs. Roger E. Kass The Newport Antiques Show has grown, first and foremost, from the Mrs. John R. Donnell Mr. and Mrs. Peter D. Kiernan III dynamism, drive and commitment of Show Chair Anne Hamilton. Personally Mrs. S. Matthews V. Hamilton, Jr. Marguerite and Gerry Lenfest involved with all aspects of the planning and preparation for the Show since PREVIEW PARTY CO -CHAIRS Mr. Henry Sharpe Lynn, Jr. the very beginning, each year she takes the helm with extraordinary energy and Brittain Bardes Mr. Peter E. Madden leadership. We are also fortunate to have our Show Manager Diana Bittel, Norey Dotterer Cullen Mr. Brian J. McNally Facilities Manager, Ralph DiSaia, and many faithful supporters and volunteers. Mrs. Peter D. Kiernan III Doug Newhouse and Holly Bannister show events Anne Dale Owen FOUNDERS O “Big History, Little State: 350 Years in 50 Objects” presented by Kirsten Frederick and Diana Prince Mrs. Russell B. Aitken Hammerstrom, Director of Collections, RI Historical Society and Loan James and Virginia Purviance Carol and Les Ballard Exhibit curator. Nicholas S. and Shelley Schorsch Mr. and Mrs. James J. Coleman, Jr. Luise Strauss O “Fruits of Our Labor: Industry, Immigration and Rhode Island’s Road to Kim and Glenn Darden Archie and Helene van Beuren Riches” by C. Morgan Grefe, Executive Director, RI Historical Society. Mrs. John R. Donnell Mrs. John A. van Beuren Bill and Jacalyn Egan O “Vintage Cars: A Meditation on Collecting” with Nicholas Schorsch, Mr. and Mrs. William Vareika Mr. and Mrs. Michael Fernandez CEO of Presenting Sponsor American Realty Capital. Mr. and Mrs. William L. Wallace
10 O O 11 profile EDUCATION ., Douglas L. Newhouse Buchanan/Burnham Internship Program Board of Directors This annual program, now in its 12th year, provides an extraordinary opportu - nity to undergraduate and graduate students interested in a career in public his - Doug Newhouse and his wife like the Newport Historical Society provide the critical links tory. Every year, thanks to the generosity of the Buchanan and Burnham Holly Bannister joined the New - from our past to the future." families, the selected interns lead public history tours and conduct research in port community in 2008 when In other philanthropic endeavors, Doug is a member of the NHS archives and collections. In the process, they learn about Newport’s they purchased Seaweed, a 1860/ the Board of Trustees of the International Yacht Restoration important role in American history and experience working in the field of public 1903 Colonial Revival home School (IYRS) in Newport, is past Chairman of the history and museums. A significant part of the designed by Horace Trumbauer Westport, Connecticut-based Greens Farms Academy internship is a research project which culminates which overlooks Bailey's Beach. Investment Committee on behalf of the Board of in a report, presentation or a product such as a Since arriving in Newport, Doug Trustees, and is a past board member of the Pequot Library collections finding aid, research paper, public and Holly have been active on in Southport, Connecticut. Doug has also served as a program or exhibit. many fronts including the com - member of the Undergraduate Business School Council at plete restoration of Seaweed, for Cornell University. which they have recently been awarded the Doris Duke Professionally, Doug is a Managing Partner and co- 2014 Buchanan/Burnham Fellows: Historic Preservation Award by the Newport Restoration Founder of Sterling Investment Partners of Westport, Kathrinne Duffy Foundation. Connecticut. Sterling is a twenty-five-year-old leading Ph.D. Candidate, American Studies Program, Doug has served on the Board of Directors of the private equity investment company focused on building Brown University. Newport Historical Society since 2011. Since joining the midsized companies. Doug has served on many corporate Projects: Exhibit titled “Flowers of the Ocean: A board he has been actively involved in the development of boards of both public and private companies. He has an History of Seaweed Collecting in Newport” Explore Newport History, an award-winning app that allows MBA from the University of Chicago Graduate School of which opened August 6, 2014 at the Museum users to take self-guided tours of Newport using their hand Business and a BS from Cornell University. held device as a guide. Doug has also been engaged in the Recreationally, Doug is a passionate skier with a home of Newport History; and a paper titled “From (Clockwise from above): Virtuous Visions to Rats and Rubbish: The Fall of the New - 2014 interns, Kathrinne Duffy, Newport Historical Society's Capital Campaign, and this in Stratton Mountain, Vermont. He is a committed, but port Natural History Society, 1883-1915.” Donald Johnson and Margaret past summer Doug and Holly opened their home to host not particularly good, golfer. Doug is also a sailor and enjoys Stack and Jasmine Souza. the Newport Antiques Show dealer and patron party. Doug racing and cruising around Narragansett Bay. Donald Johnson believes that the Historical Society's mission of preserving Doug and Holly have two adult children. Olivia, who Ph.D. Candidate, Northwestern University Department the important documents and artifacts of Newport's past was recently married at Seaweed in Newport, lives in Boston of History. and communicating Newport's history is important not and is a graduate of Georgetown University. She works in Projects: interpretive plan for the Newport Historical Society’s rehousing items; a virtual exhibit, NewportHistoryApp.com, only for Newporters, but also for those that are interested marketing for Digitas. Nick lives in New York, having just Revolution House project at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House featuring hats from the NHS costume collection titled in American history. According to Doug, "…organizations graduated from Brown University. He works at The Lodge, which will incorporate Newport’s Revolutionary heritage with “Headturners: Expressions of Social Change through Millinery a leading sound design firm. scholarship on the founding era. He is also in the final stages Fashion 1790-1970.” of writing a doctoral dissertation on military occupation during the American Revolution, “Occupied America: Every - Margaret Stack day Experiences and the Failure of the Imperial Authority in Graduate student, University of Connecticut history bytes Revolutionary Cities Under British Rule.” History Department. Projects: interpretive plan for the Newport Historical Society’s Horses and Carriages 2014 Buchanan/Burnham Interns: Revolution House project at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House which will present Newport’s Revolutionary heritage with Before the introduction of the automobile with taxi stands and rent-a-car Jasmine Souza scholarship on the founding era; two essays for History Bytes, agencies, getting around Newport required some planning. If you did not have Senior in the Textiles, Fashion Merchandising and Design “Education & Midshipmen in the Antebellum Navy,” and your own stable and carriage house, transportation was available at several livery Department, University of Rhode Island. “A Month in the Life: Midshipman Charles Hunter on the and boarding stables around town, to be rented by the day or season. The largest Projects: Cataloging project of the NHS’ textile collections, USS Potomac, November 1832”. concentration was in the Freebody Park area, behind the Ocean House Hotel. including researching and dating, conservation work, and
12 O O 13 A REENACTMENT : profile ., Elizabeth Sulock Manager of Public Outreach & Living History The Elizabeth has worked at the program reenacting the 1765 Stamp Act Riot in Newport Stamp Newport Historical Society Newport (highlighted on page 15). since 2008. Her responsibil- In her spare time, Elizabeth researches and recreates ities include managing the authentic 18th- and early 19th-century costumes for Historical S ociety’s mar ket - use at the NHS and for her participation at living his- A LIVING HISTORY EVENT ing ef forts, promoting the tory events throughout New England. (Elizabeth and Act Protest annual Newport Antiques her daughter Aubrey are shown on the steps of the Costumed interpreters brought to life Newport’s Show and serving as a first- Colony House in typical dress, c. 1780; Lew Keen, 1765 Protest of the Stamp Act in the heart of person interpreter for school photographer.) She maintains a blog highlighting her the Old Quarter, Washington Square. The living programs and seasonal events. costuming research and experience. Outside of the history event provided an exciting glimpse of life She is currently editing the history field, Elizabeth has written for media outlets in colonial Newport at one of the events that Society's forthcoming book such as Newport Life Magazine, Main Line Today sparked the American Revolution, with costumed Newport History Bytes: Fifty Fast Facts, and most recently Magazine and NFL Films. She also teaches ballet and citizens, sailors, fine ladies and gentlemen, created and organized the August 2014 living history tap at the Gladding School of Dance. Elizabeth has a loyalists and patriots alike. B.A. and M.A. in English. The event kicked off with a group of unhappy “citizens” gathered in the Square to reenact the Protest of 1765. Costumed partici - pants created and hung in effigy a figure of the third annual loyalist Martin Howard, and then led the 18th- century Newporters in a loud and passionate expression of their discontent with the King of Craft Beer Fest England. Following the protest, the rabble rousers This year’s Newport Craft Beer Festival again drew hundreds of visitors regrouped at the 1739 Colony House, the loca - to the Great Friends Meeting House on a cool Saturday in April. The tion of the original protest, for a Stamp Act historic structure, built in 1699, provides an ideal setting for the event; Party in the spirit of the 18th-century. Party- Newporter s—many Quakers among the m— have been brewing beer goers enjoyed “beer and strong cheese,” just as since long before the Revolutionary War. In two sessions (noon to 3 original protest participants were served, provided and 4 to 7pm), guests had the opportunity to meet the brewers and try by Newport Storm Brewery and Narragansett a wide variety of craft beers from around the country. Creamery. Loyalists were welcome too, and enjoyed tea from Empire Tea + Coffee. Aquidneck Island’s early settlers brought with them the European and Our thanks to all who participated and English tradition of drinking beer, du e—in par t—to the presence of especially to event sponsors: The Newport Mercury , pollutants in the water supply. And for those who think that consuming beer would be antithetical to the stern Newport Storm, Narragansett Creamery, teachings of the Society of Friends, the Newport Quaker brewer Giles Hosier (1725-1806) had a thriving business Empire Coffee + Tea, and the Newport Restora - and rented cellar space in the Colony House to store his beer. Hosier Street today runs between the Colony House tion Foundation. and The Fastnet Pub. Proceeds from this annual event benefit the Rhode Island Brewers Guild and Newport Historical Society. Our thanks to our friends at Pour Judgement Bar & Grill and Newport Storm Brewery, and we look forward to next year.
14 O O 15 1639 2014 3 5A Timeline of Newport History ^ ive highly select
In honor of Newport’s 375th Anniversary on April 28, 2014 our staff created a April 1828 intellectual antidote to frivolous summer pursuits, 1930 in the words of Julia, “lest the Newport season timeline of some of the most significant events that have shaped Newport. Here begins a Father Robert Woodley, on behalf of the Boston America’s Cup Races move to Newport from 7 should entirely evaporate into the shallow pursuit New York. diocese, purchases a small school house on of amusement.” brief version of the complete timeline that first appeared in the Newport Daily News. Barney Street for the purpose of converting into Newport’s first Catholic Church. December 6, 1933 October 6, 1884 Billy Goode obtains Newport Liquor license April 29, 1639 July 8, 1663 Narragansett Bay would provide both ample 1855 Naval War College is established on Coaster’s No. 1 the day after Prohibition is repealed. The Newport Compact, which formed the basis The Rhode Island Royal Charter granted by King harbor and ready access to the Atlantic, where Harbor Island in the building previously The Sea-Girt Hotel is built by George T. Billy Goode’s Bar was in operation until 2013. of the settlement in Newport, was signed by Charles II. The Charter united Newport and they could try to cut off sea routes between occupied by the Newport Asylum for the Poor. Downing, a prominent African-American John Clarke, William Coddington, William Dyer, Providence and established freedom of religion New England Colonial strongholds and the Commodore Stephen B. Luce was the college’s entrepreneur engaged in the restaurant and 1954 Nicholas Easton, John Coggeshall, William and Liberty of Conscience. For the first time, a other colonies. An army of more than 6,000 first president. hotel business. Downing was one of 26 men The Newport Jazz Festival featuring the likes of Brenton, Henry Bull, Jeremy Clarke , and European monarch officially approved a policy of troops, around half of them Hessians and other who would donate funds towards the purchase of Billie Holiday, debuts at the Newport Casino. Thomas Hazard. These early settlers envisioned religious tolerance. With the Charter of 1663, German soldiers hired out by their lords to 1900 Touro Park. When fire destroyed the hotel in a community where religion did not define Rhode Island’s experiment in religious freedom support Britain, occupied Newport and the rest Newport is no longer a capital. Since the 1860, Downing built a commercial real estate July 25, 1965 government and government did not define was not only legal, but its colonial government of Aquidneck Island for almost three years. Colonial Era, legislature sessions had rotated block on the same site, the first store block Bob Dylan goes electric at the Newport religion. was more democratic than that of any other between colony (and later state) houses in designed for summer business. Folk Festival. American colony. July 10, 1780 Providence, Newport, Bristol, East Greenwich 1640 French forces, under the leadership of General and Kingston. In 1854 all but Newport and June 28, 1969 Baptist Church established by Dr. John Clarke. Rochambeau, arrive in Newport. Not only did a April 1865 1726 Providence were eliminated. In 1900 Article The Newport Bridge opens. Clarke played a leading role in the affairs of John Wilkes Booth is a guest at the Aquidneck James and Ann Franklin move to Newport with sizeable French fleet anchor in Newport Harbor, Amendment XI made Providence the sole the colony. He would return to England as the House Hotel in Newport shortly before the an elm wood press. Within a year of moving to but around 6,000 soldiers came ashore at what is capital. 1969 – 1970 Colony’s agent, and work for 13 years to obtain Newport, James started printing sermons, now King Park at the far end of the harbor. assassination of President Lincoln in Washington, The revitalization and development of downtown a Royal Charter for the colony from King treatises, and other documents for locals. D.C. The hotel was located on the west side of May 25, 1908 is under way; the West side of Thames Street Charles II in 1663. The Franklin Press was in operation in Newport Corne Street, between Mill and Pelham Streets. June 1781 The first game of the six team City Baseball is demolished to make way for America’s Cup from 1726 – 1815 and can be seen on display at General Rochambeau and his troops leave 1869 League is played at Basin Field, later Cardines Avenue. 1657-58 the Museum of Newport History in the Brick Newport to march south where they plan to Field. The Torpedo Station Clerks won the first Members of the Society of Friends (Quakers) The United States Naval Torpedo Station is Market. engage the British in Battle. The Battle of championship. Complaints of broken windows June 23, 1989 and Jewish settlers arrive in Newport. Newport’s Yorktown in Virginia will take place September founded on Goat Island as a Navy experimental led the railroad to shut the league down at the Oil tanker World Prodigy ran aground at philosophy of toleration provided an attractive, 28. 1781. This decisive victory for the Americans station for the development of torpedoes and May 4, 1776 end of the year. Brenton Reef spilling 420,000 gallons into safe haven for many religious groups that had The General Assembly of the Colony of Rhode with the help of the French would be the last torpedo equipment, explosives, and electrical Narragansett Bay. been marginalized and persecuted in other Island and Providence Plantations meets at the major battle fought during the American equipment. October 25, 1911 communities. Colony House and declares that it will no longer Revolution. 1871 Idawalley Zorada Lewis (Ida), the keeper of Lime September 5, 2013 obey King George III. Rock Light, dies. Her first recorded rescue was in June 1, 1660 Julia Ward Howe, famed abolitionist and author Claiborne Pell Elementary School opens, December 4, 1812 1858, but her most famous was in March of 1869 marking the end of neighborhood elementary Mary Dyer, an original Newport settler, is hanged The HMS Macedonian is brought as a prize of of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic”, and her December 8, 1776 when she saved two soldiers from the icy waters schools in Newport. on Boston Common for her Quaker beliefs. friend Thomas Wentworth Higginson, writer, A large British military force under General war into Newport Harbor. She was captured by of the harbor. During her 39 years on Lime Rock, abolitionist, and commander of a black regiment Henry Clinton arrives in Newport. The British the USS United States , commanded by Stephen Ida is credited with saving 18 lives, in the Civil War, establish the Town and Country command had decided that Newport would be Decatur during a War of 1812 naval battle. although unofficial reports suggest the number Club. The Club’s activities were meant as an an ideal home port for its Navy as the mother Decatur’s grandfather’s house can still be seen may have been as high as 36. country went about quelling the rebellion. on Charles Street.
16 O O 17 Brick Market Museum & Shop ., The Franklin Press, in memoriam Washington Square: NUALA O’D ONNELL PELL Winner of the 2014 Historic Site died 13 April 2014. Mrs. Pell was the in Journalism Award widow of Senator Claiborne Pell and a long time member and supporter of the Since 1942, the Society of Professional Journalists has honored the people Newport Historical Society. A regular and places that have played important roles in the history of American jour - attendee of NHS nalism. In 2013, the Newport Historical Society and The Newport Mercury together nominated the Franklin Press, housed in the NHS Brick Market lectures and events, Museum of Newport History on Washington Square for the 2013 Historic she was gracious, Sites in Journalism Award. engaged, and The colonial-era printing press, which is often referred to as the Franklin deeply concerned Press, printed one of the longest running newspapers in American history, the about education Newport Mercury. The Franklin Press was made in Britain in the middle of the and the value of 17th century. It is one of the few colonial-era printing presses surviving in the the humanities. United States. Long a part of Newport’s history, the press is of national significance as well. It played a vital role in the dissemination of news from Among her many near and far during a other acts of time of revolutionary service, Mrs. Pell was a trustee of Salve change. For over a cen - Regina and Roger Williams Universities as tury, the press was a well as the University of Rhode Island and he Museum & Shop had a very exciting and eventful Another enhancement to the visitor experience this year source of information the Redwood Library. year. The Museum saw an increase in visitation and will be the addition of an in-store kiosk. The kiosk will serve and also of livelihood T in revenue. Temporary exhibits were well received and multiple functions: for the families who enhanced the museum experience for both new and returning O Virtual Tour: This will allow disabled visitors to engage operated it, printing HAROLD WINTHROP SANDS visitors. In June, the dedication ceremony naming Washington with Brick Market Museum’s exhibits. This is essential newspapers, almanacs, died 28 May 2014. He was a member of Square a National Historic Site in Journalism was held at the because there is not an accessible way to the second broad sides, laws, and the NHS Board of Directors 2001-2006 Museum, and a plaque commemorating this honor was floor, which houses the Museum. currency. and served on the Finance Committee. installed on the exterior of the Brick Market building. It was first owned O He had a particular interest in English This year the shop explored the opportunities in online In-store ShopNewportHistory.com portal: This will and operated by James sales. We began with a small presence in the Amazon Market - allow visitors to make purchases and ship them directly Franklin, Jr., brother history and genealogy, and was an active place, and quickly realized there was interest! Continued to home. of Benjamin Franklin. member of the Society of Colonial Wars success on Amazon led to a decision to launch a web store on O Self-service for donated admissions to the Museum On June 19, 1758, the and The First Families of Rhode Island. the Amazon platform and www.ShopNewportHistory.com first issue of The Newport Mercury came off the press. When James died, his Mr. Sands attended the October 2013 opened on June of this year. O Portal for access to our digital resources such as widow Ann Smith Franklin continued to publish what is possibly the oldest Spectacle of We expect to continue to grow the web store; a marketing History Bytes , Found!, NHS blogs, Gladys, and continuously published newspaper in the United States. Toleration event at plan has been put into place using Google and a thoughtful The Digital Ark When Ann died, her son-in-law Samuel Hall took over. He, in turn, sold the Colony House social media presence to direct customers to www.shopnew - the business to Solomon Southwick, an outspoken opponent of the British porthistory.com. The ability to continue to engage visitors and We are excited about the new initiatives at the Brick crown, in 1768. Local lore has it that Southwick buried the printing press in a celebrating new customers after they leave the Museum & Shop is a wonderful Market Museum & Shop and hope that you will visit soon! garden off Third Street in the Point section of Newport to keep it out of British scholarship and is enhancement to the visitor experience. hands during the occupation, and when he returned to Newport after the war, shown here chat - There will also be some much needed capital improve - 127 Thames Street, Newport, RI (401) 841-8770 unearthed the press and continued his printing operation. ting with ments made at the Museum & Shop. Watch for improved Hours: Open Daily 10 – 5 On June 19, 2014 the official Awards ceremony took place in the portico another guest. lighting and signage in and around the shop and Brick Market of the Museum of Newport History. An exterior plaque was dedicated to building. Admission: Free for members. For nonmembers, suggested donation of $4/adult and $2/child over age 5. distinguish the Franklin Press and Washington Square as a National Historic Site in Journalism. .,
18 O O 19 The Poison Plot A L ECTURE BY ELAINE FORMAN CRANE
ometime during the month of November 1738, Mary Arnold Sattempted to poison her husband Benedict (grandson of Governor Benedict Arnold and grandfather to the infamous Revolutionary War General Benedict history bytes Arnold). Fearing for his life, he petitioned the Rhode Island General Assembly for a history bytes divorce. Benedict Arnold’s plea contained Newport and the not only an accusation of attempted murder, California Gold Rush Hammett’s Bookstore but of adultery, sexually transmitted disease, In 1848 Gold Rush fever was spreading theft, fraud, and various other social impro - throughout the continent and adven - Hammett’s Bookstore operated from 1846-1898 at Newport, Rhode Island and prieties. According to Benedict, Mary’s turers were flocking to California to the corner of Thames Street and Cotton Court. ongoing abuse “…Scandalises his Family find their fortunes. On 15 February It rivaled the collection of the Redwood Library New York Place Names Relatives & Acquaintance in an Intolerable 1849, seventy-five Newporters set sail and the Newport Public Library with thousands of 1. Astoria Queens: Developed by John Jacob Astor and son William B. Astor, manner.” The Arnolds were the talk of the on the old whaler Audley Clarke books, some dating to the mid 17th-century. owner of “Beechwood.” town. under the command of Capt. Ayrault It served as a bookstore with a circulating library, 2. Belmont and Belmont Race Track: Founded by August Belmont of “By The Sea” Elaine Forman Crane, Professor of History at Fordham University, presented Wanton Dennis. After a quick stop at as well as a printing and stationery establishment. and son Perry Belmont of “Belcourt.” highlights of her current research on April 17, 2014 at the Colony House. the Cape Verde Islands for supplies, Charles E. Hammett, Jr. (1823-1902) was a civic 3. Hutchinson River: Named for Portsmouth settler and Antinomian leader Anne She emphasized that the unique details of Mary’s betrayal are replayed often the ship pulled into San Francisco Bay Marbury Hutchinson, who was killed at Pelham Bay Park 1643. leader and one of the original incorporators of enough among her contemporaries as to not be unusual. “As a sidebar to the after a 198 day voyage around Cape the Newport Historical Society in 1854. Hammett’s 4. Jerome Avenue, the Bronx: Named for Leonard Jerome, owner of Ruggles study of ‘traditional’ marriage and the family in early America,” Dr. Crane Horn. Audley Clarke was immediately Avenue cottage in 1863 and grandfather of Winston Churchill. deserted and floundered in litigation store is now occupied by the J. D. Convenience explains, “the fine points of the Arnold story show that marriages were not nec - 5. Pelham Manor: Named for Sir John Pell (b. 1643), second Lord of Pelham Manor concerning ownership and customs Store at 202 Thames Street. essarily made in heaven—or even were heavenly inspired. And although the seamy and ancestor of Newport Pells. side of their union may be an extraordinary example of marital disarray in early matters. Most passengers stayed out 6. Sand’s Point: Purchased by James Sands (b. 1652) of Portsmouth and Block Island. America, the Arnolds’ failings provide insights into a range of social fault lines west or embarked on voyages to 7. Throg’s Neck: Purchased by Providence founder John Throckmorton in 1643. that extend beyond their domestic circle: adultery, illegitimacy, poison, abuse of Australia’s Gold Rush. Shown here are husbands by wives, female dependency, drugs and druggists, attempted crimes.” a sketch made of the Audley Clarke and a mysterious gold nugget from the Found Since research began for the NHS exhibit A Writer’s Dozen , attempts had been Adding to the story is the age gap between Mary and Benedict: he was nearly NHS collections. made to find cabinetmakers’ signatures or makers’ marks on the 18th-century two decades older than Mary and by the time Benedict was in his mid-50s, desks in the collection. On one in particular, a desk that family history suggested Mary sought the company of other, presumably younger men. Nevertheless, as AKER S ARK A M ’ |M was made by Thomas Goddard, son of the famous Newport furniture Benedict’s wife Mary was her husband’s first line of defense when illness overtook maker John Goddard, faint traces of graphite were found on the top sur - him. As his caretaker, she prepared medicinal remedies, and if Mary knew which face of the desk’s bottom board, but they defied decipherment. cures would restore Benedict to health, she also seemed to have knowledge of poisons might better suit her purpose. The Arnold marriag e— and divorc e— Several NHS staff members enjoyed hearing Eric Groenning’s talk at the raises intriguing questions about the complex relationships between men and Redwood Library’s recent seminar on Rhode Island furniture makers women in early America. regarding the use of infrared photography as a means to bring out faint Dr. Crane’s books include Killed Strangely: The Death of Rebecca Cornell (Cornell traces of writing on furniture. Following the event, Adjunct Curator University Press, 2002), E bb Tide in New England: Women, Seaports, and Social Adams Taylor borrowed such a camera from staff at the Preservation Change 1630-1800 (Northeastern University Press, 1998), and A Dependent Society and was rewarded with a faint but legible image that revealed the People: Newport, Rhode Island in the Revolutionary Era (Fordham University Press, name “Thom.” This is strong evidence to confirm the desk’s maker. 1985). She is a member of the Newport Historical Society’s Leadership Council. Stay tuned for more discoveries.
20 O O 21 Newport Crossword Board of Directors Staff
Thomas P. I. Goddard, President Ruth S. Taylor, Executive Director Harrison M. Wright, First Vice President Loraine M. Byrne, Manager of Administration, Membership, and Brand Jessica Hagen, Second Vice President Deborah Carmone, Bookkeeper Dickson G. Boenning, Treasurer Mathew Delaire, Executive Assistant to the Director Dorienne Farzan, Secretary Bertram Lippincott III, Reference Librarian & Genealogist David Brodsky Charles C. Morgan, Facilities Manager Richard I. Burnham, President Emeritus James Farrar Ingrid Peters, Associate Director and Director of Education Beatriz Ford Jennifer Robinson, Associate Curator of Photography George G. Herrick and Costume Victoria Johnson Pamela Kelley Bridget Sullivan, Registrar Elizabeth Leatherman Elizabeth Sulock, Manager of Public Outreach and Living History Matthew H. Leys Adams Taylor, Adjunct Curator of Exhibits Douglas L. Newhouse Dwight Sipprelle Kathleen Vanderveer, Director of Retail Operations Nancy Parker Wilson Public Engagement Anne F. Hamilton, Honorary Director Kassandra Ettefagh Kenneth H. Lyons, President Emeritus Emily Stenning Dennis F. McCoy, President Emeritus Renee Walker-Tuttle
NHS Tour Guides Patricia Drislane Chuck Flippo Leadership Council Lewis Keen Colleen Miller Hugh D. Auchincloss III Jean Quinn Sylvia Brown Elise Petrarca Richard I. Burnham Jenna Teachout Elaine F. Crane Richard C. Crisson Ronald Lee Fleming David B. Ford Transitions Anne F. Hamilton Archivist Stacie Parillo came to the NHS in 2011 to assist in the important Edward W. Kane project of acquiring real intellectual control of our collections and the Matthew Keagle data associated with them. Hired originally to staff the “Lost and Found” Michael C. Kathrens project, she quickly became an essential member of the team, and our Karen Dahlgren Lloyd go-to person for all digital initiatives. Stacie is leaving us to take a Philip C. Marshall dynamic position working with digital resources at the Providence Public Doug Riggs Library. She will stay on as a consultant to keep her projects here moving Pieter Roos forward, and will be joining the NHS Collections Committee. John Tschirch Editor James Yarnall and designer Jane Carey have been producing the For answers see NewportHistory.org “News” Gerald W. R. Ward Journal Newport History for over a decade, and have been essential in tab, click on “What’s Happening” and look for Edward L. Widmer providing our members with a regular dose of scholarship about Newport History. Both are retiring, which leaves us with some big shoes to fill! Timmy Newport Crossword . Newport Historical Society Non-Profit Org. 82 Touro Street U.S. Postage Newport, Rhode Island 02840 PAID Newport, RI www.NewportHistory.org Permit 82
t is the mission of the Newport Historical Society to collect update from the I and preserve the artifacts, governor’s office photographs, documents, publica - tions and genealogical records that Status of the Charter Museum relate to the history of Newport County; to make these materials and Re-encasement of readily available for both research the 1663 Charter and enjoyment; and to act as a resource center for the education The Charter Museum at the Rhode Island State of the public about the history of House, which opened in June 2013, will be get - Newport County so that knowledge ting some exhibit upgrades in coming months. of the past may contribute to a The Rhode Island 1663 Colonial Charter will fuller understanding of the present. soon be travelling to the Northeast Document Conservation Center in Andover, Massachusetts, to undergo conservation treatment. This treat - ment is part of a larger project to construct three Join Us! state-of-the-art sealed encasements that will provide optimal climate and lighting conditions Visit www.NewportHistory.org to become a member and enjoy the benefits... for this founding document. These new encase - ments will ensure that this document remains ! Free admission (with card) to Newport Historical safe and well-preserved for generations to come. Society sites inlcuding the Museum. Be sure to visit the Charter Museum, and stay ! Reduced rates for tours, programs, lectures and events. ! Subscription to Historical Society publications. tuned for updates on the project in coming ! 20% discount on purchases at Museum Store. months. ! 10% discount on image and document reproduction. ! Members Only shopping days. ! Recognition in publications and Annual Report.