Captain John Warren House
Historical marker location:
Newport, Rhode Island
( Marker is on Washington Street near Elm Street, on the right when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 1936
Built 1737
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The historic Newport Mansions, such as The Breakers and Marble House, were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s by wealthy families like the Vanderbilts and Astors as summer homes.
About Newport County
Newport County Timeline
Newport County, located in the state of Rhode Island, has a rich history that dates back to the early colonial period. The area was first settled by European colonists in the early 17th century, and Newport itself was founded in 1639 by a group of religious dissidents seeking religious freedom. The town quickly grew due to its strategic location for trade and commerce, particularly in the shipping industry.
By the 18th century, Newport had become one of the busiest ports in colonial America, serving as a major center for trade with the West Indies and Europe. The city was known for its prosperous merchant class, which built stunning mansions along the waterfront. However, the American Revolution brought significant change to Newport as British forces occupied the city during the war. After the war, the economy gradually declined, and Newport lost its status as a major trading hub.
In the 19th century, Newport experienced a revival as a resort destination for the wealthy elite, who were drawn to the area for its natural beauty and moderate climate. The Gilded Age saw the construction of lavish summer cottages, including the famous Newport Mansions, which are now popular tourist attractions. Newport also became known for hosting prestigious social events, such as the America's Cup sailing race.
The 20th century brought more changes to Newport County. During World War II, the area became an important naval base, with the construction of naval facilities and the presence of the US Navy's Atlantic Fleet. Over time, the naval presence declined, and the local economy shifted towards tourism and education. Today, Newport County continues to attract visitors with its historic sites, museums, scenic coastline, and vibrant cultural scene.
By the 18th century, Newport had become one of the busiest ports in colonial America, serving as a major center for trade with the West Indies and Europe. The city was known for its prosperous merchant class, which built stunning mansions along the waterfront. However, the American Revolution brought significant change to Newport as British forces occupied the city during the war. After the war, the economy gradually declined, and Newport lost its status as a major trading hub.
In the 19th century, Newport experienced a revival as a resort destination for the wealthy elite, who were drawn to the area for its natural beauty and moderate climate. The Gilded Age saw the construction of lavish summer cottages, including the famous Newport Mansions, which are now popular tourist attractions. Newport also became known for hosting prestigious social events, such as the America's Cup sailing race.
The 20th century brought more changes to Newport County. During World War II, the area became an important naval base, with the construction of naval facilities and the presence of the US Navy's Atlantic Fleet. Over time, the naval presence declined, and the local economy shifted towards tourism and education. Today, Newport County continues to attract visitors with its historic sites, museums, scenic coastline, and vibrant cultural scene.
Newport County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Newport County, Rhode Island.
- 1639: Newport County is founded by settlers from Massachusetts
- 1640: First European settlement is established in Newport
- 1650: Newport becomes a thriving colonial port and center of trade
- 1677: The Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations is established, with Newport County as one of its four original counties
- 1758: The British establish a military base in Newport during the French and Indian War
- 1776: Newport County experiences a significant decline in trade due to the American Revolutionary War
- 1780: British forces occupy Newport during the Revolutionary War
- 1793: Newport begins to transition into a fashionable summer resort town
- 1834: Construction of the Newport Bridge, the first bridge connecting Newport to the mainland, is completed
- 1855: The wealthy Vanderbilt family builds their summer home, The Breakers, in Newport
- 1895: The first America's Cup yacht race is held in Newport
- 1914: Construction of the Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge, replacing the original Newport Bridge, is completed
- 1954: The Newport Jazz Festival is established, becoming one of the most significant jazz events in the world
- 1969: The Newport Folk Festival becomes a renowned event in the American folk music revival
- 2001: Newport celebrates its 350th anniversary
- 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic impacts tourism and events in Newport County