Bristol County Jail
a.k.a. Bristol Historical and Preservation Society
48 Court St., Bristol, RIThe building now occupied by the Bristol Historical and Preservation Society lies within the heart of the historic center of Bristol on a narrow lane (Court Street) that runs from Hope Street to High Street, two important and old thoroughfares. Facing the head of Court Street on the Town Common is the Bristol County Courthouse, a Federal-period building erected in 1817 and now entered on the National Register. Also within half a block of the old Bristol County Jail is the former Bristol Post Office and Customs house designed by Ammi B. Young in 1857, now owned by the local Y. M. C. A. and also entered on the National Register. The former jail is important to its immediate neighborhood and makes a significant contribution to the total environment: it is an unusual building type in basically unaltered condition and now is accessible to the general public. One of a limited number of extant Bristol structures constructed of granite rubble and not stuccoed, the character of its walls is an outstanding feature.
In 1936, the Bristol Historical Society was formed and the first official meeting was held in December, at the Bristol County Courthouse. In 1952, the first floor of the Rogers Free Library building was procured as a permanent meeting place, but this building burned in July 1957, causing dama Re to society's possessions and papers. Not long afterward the old Bristol County Jail was vacated, and the society was able to obtain from the State of Rhode Island a twenty-year lease of the building and grounds. The first meeting there was held on May 3, 1959, and subsequently, help towards restoration and adaptation was given by many interested citizens--especially Norman Herreshoff, a member of a family long rooted in the community.
The organization which is now called the Bristol Historical and Preservation Society has had to make functional alterations and repairs to its building, including the creation of a meeting room, a reference library, etc. Society is now interested in restoring the building to its original appearance as far as is feasible. Projects proposed include restoration of the Greek Revival front entrance with sidelights and transom; replacement of all sash to the twelve-over-eight and twelve-over-twelve original patterns; removal of an added brick chimney at the rear; repointing of stonework; and, finally, restoration of the fireplace and brick ovens in the basement.
Local significance of the building:
In 1936, the Bristol Historical Society was formed and the first official meeting was held in December, at the Bristol County Courthouse. In 1952, the first floor of the Rogers Free Library building was procured as a permanent meeting place, but this building burned in July 1957, causing dama Re to society's possessions and papers. Not long afterward the old Bristol County Jail was vacated, and the society was able to obtain from the State of Rhode Island a twenty-year lease of the building and grounds. The first meeting there was held on May 3, 1959, and subsequently, help towards restoration and adaptation was given by many interested citizens--especially Norman Herreshoff, a member of a family long rooted in the community.
The organization which is now called the Bristol Historical and Preservation Society has had to make functional alterations and repairs to its building, including the creation of a meeting room, a reference library, etc. Society is now interested in restoring the building to its original appearance as far as is feasible. Projects proposed include restoration of the Greek Revival front entrance with sidelights and transom; replacement of all sash to the twelve-over-eight and twelve-over-twelve original patterns; removal of an added brick chimney at the rear; repointing of stonework; and, finally, restoration of the fireplace and brick ovens in the basement.
Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
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.
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The name "Rhode Island" is actually a misnomer, as the state is not an island, but rather a mainland state with numerous islands in its coastal waters.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.