A Brief History of Newport, Rhode Island…

Founded in 1639, Newport was one of the most important port cities in the North American British Colonies during the 18th Century. Commerce included whale-oil candles, rum and fine furniture. During the Revolutionary War and its aftermath, the city’s fortunes declined.

By the mid-1800’s Newport had garnered its reputation as a fashionable summer resort favored by the wealthy leaders of the finance industry from New York. Newport’s prominence grew as it became a destination for ornate and elaborate summer “cottages,” socialite dinners and parties

Today, we know these cottages included European-inspired palaces such as Marble house, The Breakers, The Elms and Rosecliff - some of the most famous of the Preservation Society Mansions today. Following the advent of federal income tax and the First World War, The Great Depression accelerated the decline of the great fortunes that Newport had become familiar with. Because of this, the mansions received less upkeep, were abandoned or fell to demolition…

SOURCE: THE PRESERVATION SOCIETY OF NEWPORT COUNTY

What Newport is Known for Today…

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Newport is the Sailing Capital of the World and home to famous regattas such as America’s Cup and a stop-over in the Volvo Ocean Race. Gilded Age Mansions once owned by the aforementioned socialites of New York, these summer cottages are maintained by the Preservation Society.

3. Home to International Tennis Hall of Fame and acclaimed matches with the pros in the summertime.

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Stunning beaches, the famous Cliff Walk and sweeping views of Narragansett Bay.

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The luxury car market and audience thrives in Newport more than ever with the addition of two major car museums.

What else does Newport have to offer?

Although the luxe of Newport is part of the attraction, there‘s so much more to our City-by-the-Sea than fancy cars, sailboats and tennis.

Newport is home to some of the best seafood, beaches, walking paths, nature preserves and natural beauty.

Eustis/ Easton’s Pond

Quiet, quaint and beautiful, what more could you ask for! This neighborhood is conveniently central to everything without being in the middle of the summer crowds.

HistoricBellevue/ OchrePoint

Situated amongst gilded mansions and Salve Regina University, Ochre Point is a stunning neighborhood with easy access to the famous Cliff Walk.

MemorialBoulevard/ OldBeach

An idyllic strip in Newport, Memorial Boulevard and Old Beach is close to First Beach and offers stunning views and walking paths around the reservoir.