News Archive

Several news items have been condensed and updated.

October is Rhode Island Archaeology Month
Rhode Island Archaeology Month events take place all October long, providing opportunities to learn about the state's archaeological heritage. Join professional archaeologists on walking tours, talks, visits to active excavations, and hands-on opportunities to participate in projects. All events are free and open to the public. Check out the Program Calendar for details on a cool dozen events this October. (9/21/22) 

A Chapel in Paradise
A historic church and churchyard in Middletown have received federal recognition for their contributions to the history of architecture, art, and community development. The National Park Service has listed St. Columba’s, the Berkeley Memorial Chapel, in the National Register of Historic Places. Constructed in 1884-86, St. Columba’s Chapel is an excellent example of the English Gothic Revival style, and the building and cemetery showcase the work of prominent architects and designers. The property is also significant for its role in Middletown’s development as a summer resort community at the turn of the century. (8/18/22)

Cedar Point Historic District listed in National Register; Wakefield Historic District Expanded
In North Kingstown, the Cedar Point Historic District has received federal recognition for its significance to local architectural and community history. Located on the south shore of Wickford Cove, this three-acre residential enclave features five houses constructed between 1872 and 1910. In South Kingstown, the Wakefield Historic District has been expanded to include three significant historic resources from the 1930s and 1940s: Saugatucket Park, the Saugatucket River Footbridge, and the former Wakefield Post Office. (8/16/22)

Leave your passport at home and explore the world through art and music!
RIHPHC will present Rhode Island's 44th Annual Heritage Festival on Saturday, September 17th, from noon to 5 pm at the WaterFire Arts Center in Providence. Join in a lively celebration of our state's rich cultural heritage. The program will feature cultural exhibits, visual art, musical performances, children's activities, and a multicultural fashion show. And don't miss the food trucks offering an array of traditional food and beverages. Admission to this family event is FREE.  (6/16/22) 

Generating Electricity and Redevelopment in Woonsocket
The National Park Service has clarified the boundaries of the Woonsocket Company/Bernon Mills Historic District and added information to the National Register of Historic Places. Originally listed in 1973, the historic district now includes three additional buildings. The additional information describes the transition from manufacturing textiles to generating electricity on the property. (6/13/22)

Exterior Restoration Complete, $1.5 Million Accessibility Project Tees Up at Old State House
The Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission (RIHPHC), the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM), and elected officials gathered to celebrate the completion of the exterior restoration of the Old State House in Providence. Governor Daniel J. McKee, Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos, and State Senator Samuel D. Zurier joined to recognize the top-notch preservation project completed by Rhode Island contractors earlier this year. (4/13/22) 

Rhode Island Advisory Commission on Historical Cemeteries (RIACHC) and RIHPHC present RI Historical Cemeteries Awareness and Preservation Weeks
The calendar of programs includes walking tours, presentations, clean-ups, open houses, hikes, gravestone conservation demonstrations, and more. There are events taking place in every corner of the state at historic cemeteries, graveyards, and burial lots. Whether you are a hands-on type looking for a volunteer project or a preservationist interested in learning about historic cemeteries, there is a program for you!

New programs continue to be posted each week. Check for details (tour limits, RSVP requirements, etc) on the calendar. Follow us on facebook and instagram for a preview of each week's schedule and the "Cemetery Weeks Cemetery of the Week." (4/8/22)

Introducing RI Cemetery Weeks
The Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission (RIHPHC) has launched a partnership with the Rhode Island Advisory Commission on Historical Cemeteries (RIACHC) to present RI Historical Cemeteries Awareness and Preservation Weeks in April - May 2022. The RIACHC is a volunteer-led commission that presents dozens of cemetery clean-ups, gravestone conservation demonstrations, and tours across the state each spring. RIHPHC will work closely with RIACHC to organize additional free programs that raise awareness about Rhode Island's historic cemeteries and promote their preservation. (1/27/22)

18 State Preservation Grants Announced
In 2021, RIHPHC received 35 State Preservation Grants applications for capital preservation projects at museums, cultural arts centers, and public historic sites. Following review by staff and the State Preservation Grants Review Panel, the Commissioners approved more than $1.18 million in funding for 18 projects around the state. The 2021 grant round was funded by the March 2021 Cultural Arts and State Preservation Grants Programs ballot measure as well as carryover funds from a 2014 ballot measure. (1/11/22)