RI250 Newsletter | October 2025 | |
Welcome Message from the Chair
Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore,
Chair, Rhode Island Semiquincentennial (RI250) Commission
Through July 4, 2026, Rhode Islanders are doing their part in commemorating our nation’s 250th Commemoration, America250, and community participation starts with you. The Rhode Island Semiquincentennial (RI250) Commission is working to foster state pride, encourage civic engagement, support economic development, and share our state’s history through activities marking Rhode Island’s role in the American Revolution.
Beyond efforts at the state level, many municipalities have local 250 committees whose efforts are building momentum toward next year’s Semiquincentennial Commemoration. I have always felt that what binds us together far outweighs what sets us apart, which is why it’s inspiring to see our communities come together with shared pride in Rhode Island’s history.
The commemoration has already begun with an overwhelming agenda full of civic engagement this fall.
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In September, we launched the Liberty Tree Project, which aims to plant a Red Maple tree in each of Rhode Island’s 39 municipalities, representing the state’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. Modeled after the 18th-century Liberty Tree, Rhode Island’s Red Maple stands as a symbol of freedom, unity, and civic engagement. Little Compton, Charlestown, and Burrillville kicked off our Liberty Tree campaign, and there are more tree planting events planned in South Kingstown, Portsmouth, Providence, and Narragansett in the weeks ahead.
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We also celebrated our state’s unique past: on September 17, the State Archives held a special viewing of Rhode Island’s rare 1789 draft of the Bill of Rights. On October 16, RI PBS will host a sold-out preview of Ken Burns’ The American Revolution, a new documentary series that explores the country’s founding struggle and its eight-year War for Independence, at Rhode Island College.
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Looking ahead, we kick off the new season with the RI250 Cultural Convening at the Varnum Armory in East Greenwich on October 8, hosted in partnership with RI State Council on the Arts and Rhode Island Humanities, to spark collaboration across arts, culture, and humanities as we prepare for America’s 250th.
| | As the holiday season draws near, be on the lookout for upcoming events in your community, organized by your local 250 Committee, to commemorate this significant milestone. | | We appreciate your participation in these community endeavors as we continue to celebrate Rhode Island's history in the present day. | | | |  | |
Prof. Evan Wilson will discuss America's surprising naval triumph over Britain in the Revolution, focusing on Britain's perspective and Rhode Island’s crucial role, at the Richard I. Burnham Resource Center from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., with a 5:30 p.m. reception.
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Rob Doane and Maria Vazquez from the Naval War College Museum will present artifacts from British frigates scuttled near Aquidneck Island in 1778. Rhode Island's rebellious spirit and pivotal role in land and sea battles altered the course of the Revolution.
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Liberty Tree Planting - South Kingstown
Join us in South Kingstown to plant a new Liberty Tree, commemorating Rhode Island's 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The event features remarks from local leaders, a reflection on Liberty Trees' historical significance, and a dedication of the tree as a lasting symbol.
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This month’s lunch-hour virtual presentation by Akeia De Barros Gomes's "Forging Freedom" explores Indigenous and African-descended people's pursuit of freedom around the time of the Declaration, viewing freedom as more than just release from enslavement.
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From December 1776 to October 1779, Aquidneck Island was under the occupation of British and German military forces. Discover more about this period of Rhode Island history, including sketches of both Loyalist and Patriot citizens, at the George Hail Free Library.
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Liberty Tree Planting - Narragansett
Join the town of Narragansett to plant a new Liberty Tree, commemorating Rhode Island's 250th commemoration of the American Revolution. The event features remarks from local leaders, a reflection on Liberty Trees' historical significance, and a dedication of the tree as a lasting symbol.
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Historian Robert A. Geake discusses the many contributions made by communities to the cause of liberty after the Declaration of Independence made them “citizens” for the first time in the nation’s history at Smith’s Castle.
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This month’s lunch-hour virtual presentation by Robert Geake and Loren Spears will share stories of the First Rhode Island Regiment.
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Small Business Saturday
The Nathanael Greene Homestead will be open for half-price tours. The Gift Shop offers special holiday presents for history buffs. Weather permitting, enjoy a living-history encampment and a military tactical battle.
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250 Words of Joy - Bristol
The Bristol Phoenix will publish an ongoing series of reflections, poems, and micro-essays, each 250 words, centered on the theme of "joy." This feature, commemorating Bristol's 250th celebration, began on August 28th and will continue through 2026. Submissions can be made to cnadalin@eastbaymediagroup.com.
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Newport 1775: Whose Side Are You On?
"Newport 1775: Whose Side Are You On?" at the Newport Historical Society's Richard I. Burnham Resource Center explores colonial Newport's Patriots and Loyalists. This free exhibit, running through December, follows six Newporters through pre-Revolutionary dilemmas, featuring interactive displays, artifacts, media reports, and a 17th-century printing press to illustrate the spread of information, opinions, and uncertainty.
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Want your event featured?
Reach out to us anytime at info@ri250.org or lfogarty@sos.ri.gov.
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Thank you for being part of this historic journey. Let’s make history — together.
— The RI250 Team
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