Living in one of the nation's oldest states means there are tons of historically rich and fascinating places found all over. While most of the oldest remaining man-made structures tend to be traced back to the Colonial Era, there are a few that date back even earlier. Though many of these sites have interesting stories of their own, there is one place in Rhode Island that some historians say continues to maintain an air of mystery. This mysterious tower in Rhode Island is baffling.
The historic structure known as Newport Tower stands brilliantly in Touro Park in Newport. Other common names for this mysterious and massive stone tower include Round Tower, Old Stone Mill, and Touro Tower.
The popular running belief is that it's actually the remains of a windmill built in the mid 17th century. However, there are currently dozens of academics who argue that there is overwhelming evidence to suggest otherwise.
Many have cited pieces of writing dating back to the first few colonists to discover the tower. They themselves seemed to express confusion and conflicting beliefs about its origin.
Other historians have even speculated that the strange tower was constructed by Vikings! While this goes against most shared beliefs about the pre colonial history of Newport, it is super interesting to think about.
Still, other research suggests that the tower was first constructed sometime in the 15th century, torn down, and eventually rebuilt in the 17th century.
Historians decided to pull in some scientific testing for answers. Carbon dating, a reliable process determining the age of organic matter, proves that the structure was most likely constructed in the late 1600s.
While there are still many disagreements on its origins, one thing that most Newport goers can agree on is that it's an essential part of the landscape and cultural fiber of this beautiful island city.
Curious to discover more bizarre places in Rhode Island? Here's a list of 12 of the weirdest places you can possibly go in Little Rhody!
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