Blithewold
a.k.a. Blithewold Gardens & Arboretum
Ferry Rd., Bristol, RIBlithewold is significant for its architecture, for its role in Bristol's social history, and, most particularly, for its landscaping, its gardens and arboretum which are outstanding in New England.
Neither the house nor the outbuildings are particularly unique, but they are good examples of their period and style. The house, a specimen of the English manor style popular for country houses and summer estates at the turn of the twentieth century, is generously proportioned and carefully finished, but modest when compared to the summer "cottages" built contemporaneously at Newport and other watering spots. In this combination of modesty and attention to detail, Blithewold is typical of the work of Kilham and Hopkins, a good but undistinguished firm.
A contemporary account of the work of Kilham and Hopkins summarized their contribution as follows:
The article suggests, further, that Kilham and Hopkins displayed more variety in their approach to summer homes than to any other genre.
Surely the firm's "high standard of excellence" is visible in the care and quality of the construction and finishing at Blithewold: the stairhall and staircase, the living room ceiling and mantel, the paneled dining room with its banks of windows at either end and its fireplace with painting fitted into the niche above, and the lattice-work breakfast room all display attention to detail and responsiveness to the specific desires of the client. The use of fire-resistant construction - - stone and stucco with many fire-stops in the interior walls -- is another reflection of response to a particular client. The first "Blithewold," a large shingle-style house had burned; and Mr. and Mrs. William L. McKee were taking no chances with its replacement.
Local significance of the building:
Neither the house nor the outbuildings are particularly unique, but they are good examples of their period and style. The house, a specimen of the English manor style popular for country houses and summer estates at the turn of the twentieth century, is generously proportioned and carefully finished, but modest when compared to the summer "cottages" built contemporaneously at Newport and other watering spots. In this combination of modesty and attention to detail, Blithewold is typical of the work of Kilham and Hopkins, a good but undistinguished firm.
A contemporary account of the work of Kilham and Hopkins summarized their contribution as follows:
"Their work has been very varied ... Throughout their career, they have lived up to a high standard of excellence... but they have not, on the other hand, made any peculiarly individual contribution to American architecture. They have added to the stock of New England buildings a large number of structures which have served admirably the purpose for which they were erected and which have given prolonged and renewed life to sound local tradition".
The article suggests, further, that Kilham and Hopkins displayed more variety in their approach to summer homes than to any other genre.
Surely the firm's "high standard of excellence" is visible in the care and quality of the construction and finishing at Blithewold: the stairhall and staircase, the living room ceiling and mantel, the paneled dining room with its banks of windows at either end and its fireplace with painting fitted into the niche above, and the lattice-work breakfast room all display attention to detail and responsiveness to the specific desires of the client. The use of fire-resistant construction - - stone and stucco with many fire-stops in the interior walls -- is another reflection of response to a particular client. The first "Blithewold," a large shingle-style house had burned; and Mr. and Mrs. William L. McKee were taking no chances with its replacement.
Landscape Architecture; Architecture; Social History
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The USS Saratoga, the first aircraft carrier to be commissioned in the United States Navy, was built in Rhode Island at the Fore River Shipyard in 1927.
About Bristol County
Bristol County Timeline
Bristol County, Rhode Island, has a rich history dating back to the early 17th century. Originally inhabited by the Wampanoag people, the area was later settled by English colonists. The town of Bristol was officially established in 1680 and quickly became an important center for maritime trade and fishing due to its prime location on Narragansett Bay.
During the American Revolution, Bristol played a significant role in the fight for independence. The town was heavily involved in privateering, a practice where privately owned ships were authorized by the government to attack and capture enemy vessels. Many Bristol sailors served on these privateers, contributing to the success of the American cause.
In the 19th century, Bristol experienced a period of economic growth and prosperity. Industries such as shipbuilding, textiles, and manufacturing thrived, leading to an increase in population and wealth. The town's maritime heritage continued to play a vital role, with bustling wharves and a busy harbor serving as vital links for trade and commerce.
Today, Bristol County remains an important historic and cultural destination. The town of Bristol is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the Independence Park, which contains the 1783 DeWolf Tavern, a National Historic Landmark. The annual Bristol Fourth of July Parade is also a major attraction, known as the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.
Overall, Bristol County, RI, boasts a long and storied history, from its Native American roots to its significant contributions to the American Revolution and its prosperous maritime heritage. The town's historical sites and traditions continue to be cherished by residents and attract visitors from near and far.
During the American Revolution, Bristol played a significant role in the fight for independence. The town was heavily involved in privateering, a practice where privately owned ships were authorized by the government to attack and capture enemy vessels. Many Bristol sailors served on these privateers, contributing to the success of the American cause.
In the 19th century, Bristol experienced a period of economic growth and prosperity. Industries such as shipbuilding, textiles, and manufacturing thrived, leading to an increase in population and wealth. The town's maritime heritage continued to play a vital role, with bustling wharves and a busy harbor serving as vital links for trade and commerce.
Today, Bristol County remains an important historic and cultural destination. The town of Bristol is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the Independence Park, which contains the 1783 DeWolf Tavern, a National Historic Landmark. The annual Bristol Fourth of July Parade is also a major attraction, known as the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.
Overall, Bristol County, RI, boasts a long and storied history, from its Native American roots to its significant contributions to the American Revolution and its prosperous maritime heritage. The town's historical sites and traditions continue to be cherished by residents and attract visitors from near and far.
Bristol County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bristol County, Rhode Island.
- 1680: Bristol County is founded as part of Plymouth Colony.
- 1747: Bristol County becomes part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
- 1747-1774: Bristol experiences economic growth through the Triangular Trade, involving rum, slaves, and molasses.
- 1776: The Revolutionary War begins and Bristol County plays a significant role in supporting the American cause.
- 1777: Rhode Island declares independence from Britain and Bristol County becomes part of the newly formed state.
- 1790s: Bristol County experiences industrial growth with the establishment of mills and factories.
- 1835: The town of Bristol is incorporated.
- 1820s-1840s: Bristol's economy booms with the rise of the maritime industry.
- 1861-1865: Many Bristol residents participate in the American Civil War.
- 1895: The oldest Fourth of July parade in the United States is held in Bristol.
- 20th century: Bristol County sees continued economic growth and becomes a popular tourist destination.
- 2007: Bristol County celebrates its 325th anniversary.