A New History of the Old State House
The Old State House is one of just six remaining colonial state houses in the United States -- but what do we really know about this place? Who built it? How has it changed? What has it meant to Rhode Islanders since it was constructed in 1762?
During the recent two-year interior restoration of the building, historian Kathryn J. Cavanaugh began new research on the Old State House to find answers, fill gaps in the historical record, and shed light on the oldest civic building in Providence. Join us to hear what we've learned.
About the Presenter
Kathy has been a self-employed historic preservation consultant for nearly three decades, specializing in documenting historic properties in various communities all over Rhode Island through historic architectural surveys, nominations to the National Register of Historic Places, and other research endeavors. Her most recent project in 2025-2026 produced a report on research findings as well as updated and expanded National Register documentation for the Old State House and Parade in Providence. A long-time volunteer for the Providence Preservation Society, Kathy has served on its Board of Trustees, Marker Committee, and Planning & Architectural Review Committees; as a consultant to PPS she also produced over 330 research reports for its Marker Program. Kathy received a BA degree from Connecticut College and an MA in Preservation Studies from Boston University.