Awaiting Your Return From Shore |
Located at
the southern tip of the largest island in Narragansett Bay, Newport was
established as a colony by William Coddington of Providence in 1639. Due to
its excellent harbor, it developed rapidly through sea trade, whaling and
smuggling - a fact that led some neighbors to call the tiny state “Rogues
Island.” Rhode Islanders also were in the forefront of Revolutionary
passion, resenting the economic pressures placed on them from England, which
severely affected their commercial power. A reputation of religious freedom
encouraged Jews, Quakers and Baptists to settle in Newport to become part of
the lucrative international trade until British occupation in 1776 caused a
drastic decline in prosperity.
At the turn of the century, Newport regained importance as a resort for
wealthy industrialists, such as the Astors, Belmonts and Vanderbilts. They
built their ostentatious “summer cottages,” modeled after European palaces,
which elevated Newport to the position of undisputed “Queen of Summer
Resorts.” Although the Depression to a large extent put an end to this
outrageously decadent lifestyle, today many of these extravagant mansions of
the “Gilded Age” are run by the Newport Preservation Society and a tour of
at least one of the famous mansions is a must for any visitor. In addition,
Newport is also famous as a well-heeled yachting capital and site of
international tennis championships. As such, it offers sophisticated
boutiques and excellent restaurants that have replaced the earlier seasalt
rawness of its waterfront. Walking tours offer a great introduction to
Colonial Newport, which boasts a collection of 18th- and 19th-century and
even pre-Revolutionary buildings that rival those of Boston. |
Awaiting Your Return
From Shore |
Complimentary
Spirits Await |
Return to Your
Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure |
Entertainment
and Dancing Await You |