Rhode Island is loaded with local history, which is one of the many things we love about it. But did you know that one of the first newspapers in the entire country was published right here at Hunter House? This 18th-century mansion is a historic treasure.
Located in Newport, Hunter House is one of the best examples of Georgian Colonial architecture from the time period, which was known as Newport's Golden Age.
When the house was built, Newport was a cosmopolitan city, known for its religious tolerance.
The north half of the house was constructed by Jonathon Nichols, Jr., a local merchant and colonial deputy.
After his death, Colonel Joseph Wanton, Jr. purchased the property. He added a south wing to the house and transforming it into a true mansion.
During the Revolutionary War, the French army was stationed at Hunter House.
To pass news on to the other French soldiers, a French newspaper was printed. That publication became the first newspaper printed by an expeditionary force.
That newspaper became the forerunner of some notable journalism, but unfortunately, most of the information was lost to history.
Colonel Wanton ended up fleeing town with his family because of his Royalist sympathies, so the French took possession of the mansion. During all the madness, running the newspaper was just too big of an effort.
After the war, the house was acquired by William Hunter, hence the name.
The house endured a series of owners from the mid-1860s to the mid-1940s. The Preservation Society of Newport County has since restored it to the era of Colonel Wanton.
These days, Hunter House is a peaceful place with some absolutely beautiful surroundings.
For a small fee, you can tour the home and the property and learn more about this historic gem.
Hunter House is a National Historic Landmark.
And with so much history taking place inside those walls, it's a well-deserved title.
Have you ever explored Hunter House?
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