Newport launches Semiquincentennial events, celebrates the city's underrated role in the American Revolution
Q:
First, Newport's role in the Revolution is pretty underrated. Tell us why the city played such a key role.
Bertrand:
The march to Yorktown actually started in Newport. Newport was occupied by British forces for three years, during which time more than half of the city's population fled. After the British left, the French arrived in 1780, and that Franco-American Alliance would ultimately help bring the war to an end. We're excited to share this chapter of history and use the 250th to show people the essential role that Newport played in America and its courageous pursuit of independence.
Q:
On Friday, you're hosting an event called Two Lights for Liberty. What is this celebration all about?
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Bertrand:
Two Lights for Liberty is Newport Historical Society's official kickoff celebration for the 250th anniversary of American independence – or what we call the 'semiquincentennial.' It's going to be a fun night of food, drinks, and revolutionary revelry, including a guest appearance from Paul Revere.
Revere's famous ride took place on this date in 1775, so state houses across the country will put two lights in their windows to commemorate the occasion. We're going even bigger. The Colony House was the Rhode Island State House at the start of the Revolution, and tonight it will be beautifully illuminated, inside and out.
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Q:
Following Two Lights, you have an exhibition coming up in May about the role of media in the War for Independence. Tell us more about that.
Bertrand:
Yes, this is one of our signature programs for the 250th. 'Newport 1775: Whose Side Are You On?' opens May 15 in our headquarters on Touro Street and will be on display through the end of 2025. The exhibition is about the choices of ordinary people in Newport and how they shaped history. The media, of course, played a role in informing their opinions, so the exhibition features a 17th century Franklin printing press and an interactive display with newspapers from Patriots and Loyalists. One of the really interesting components is that we ask visitors to choose a side and then examine that choice as they go through the exhibition. It's going to be a really dynamic experience.
Q:
What else does the Newport Historical Society have planned for America's 250th birthday?
Bertrand:
Two Lights for Liberty is just the beginning. Inside a half-mile stretch of Newport, you can literally take a walk in the shoes of the men and women whose stories shaped our city. It's our job at the NHS to make that history come alive today. We're offering walking tours, an incredible lineup of speakers in our Tavern Talks series, and in July we will host the 'French in Newport' living history event. There's so much more to come, so if you are interested in history or are just curious about Newport, we invite you to join us! You can learn more
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