Newport, Rhode Island is a town that has a history that is both remarkable and unique. In the early days, it was a haven for Irish families. It also became home to many influential architects, artists and scientists. During the 18th century, the economic growth in Newport was tied to the expansion of the slave trade and the export of goods.
The 18th and 19th centuries saw the transformation of Newport from a small community to a summer resort. Gilded Age summer colonists, such as the King family of New York and the Vanderbilts, helped transform it into the Queen of Resorts. This period also saw a number of mansions built by wealthy summer visitors. These are now part of the city’s rich architectural tapestry.
Despite the many changes to Newport’s economy during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, it was still a place of religious liberty. It is said that William Coddington and Nicholas Easton moved south to form the town in 1639. At the same time, the British occupied the town from 1776 to 1779, despite efforts to drive them out.
Despite the British occupation, the city became a haven for patriot forces during the Revolution. Many men with weapons marched on Newport. Some earthworks can still be seen on the town Common.
The uprising at Newport was the last large scale armed rebellion in mainland Britain. The uprising was initiated by John Frost, a Chartist leader, who led 3,000 marchers on the Westgate Hotel. After a violent attack by the militia, the ringleaders were arrested and sentenced to death. They were then transported to Australia.
During the Civil War, Newport Pagnell became a Royalist stronghold. The area’s location was on direct routes between Cambridge and Oxford, and the town provided coaching inns.
The area was also a major center of lacemaking. In the 1760s, the economic boom spurred the building of several new houses. However, over half of the population left the area.
The city’s shipbuilding industry flourished in the 1840s and 1850s. There were dozens of wharves along the harbor. By the 1870s, Newport was home to hundreds of shops. During this period, the town mill burned twice.
A number of churches and religious sites are located in the town. These include the Church of the Holy Cross, the Church of Saint Woolos, the Trinity Church, and the Church of Saint Gwynllyw. Several historic mansions are also located in Newport, including the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House.
In the 21st century, the City of Newport is known for its many industries. A huge plant for Panasonic, for instance, is located in the town. And the United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office (formerly the Patent Office) is headquartered there.
In recent years, the city has undertaken a major redevelopment plan. Major regeneration projects have included improving the city centre road network, as well as building a footbridge linking the east and west banks of the river. One of the most significant of these is the Southern Distributor Road, which opened in 2004.https://www.youtube.com/embed/OU00m0kSQeU