As communities across the land prepare to celebrate America’s Semiquincentennial – or 250th Anniversary - we here in Warwick are no different, and take great pride in our role in the nation’s founding. Did you know that, while the Boston Tea Party and the Battles of Lexington and Concord are among some of the more notable actions related to the American Revolution, what is said to be the true first act of rebellion against the Crown actually happened earlier in the waters of Warwick, Rhode Island?
In June of 1772, brave colonists dealt the First Blow for Freedom TM leading to the Revolutionary War, when local patriots rowed quietly down the Providence River, then boarded and burned the British schooner HMS Gaspee in defiance of British authority. Warwick is also home of the Pawtuxet Rangers, R.I.M, who were chartered by the Colony of Rhode Island in 1774 and played a vital role in the fight for independence. (The Rangers’ headquarters are in Armory Hall, constructed by the state of Rhode Island in 1843 for the Rangers following the Dorr Rebellion.)
Speaking of the Gaspee affair, since 1965, the hardworking Gaspee Days Committee puts on a series of events in May and June to commemorate the historic event. This year, in honor of the 250th, they have also added additional events to their calendar, an authentic Community Clambake on August 15, “Becoming the United States – a symphony concert on September 12, and a themed scavenger hunt on October 3! Be sure to check back for additional details as the events draw closer.
But first, we’ll be marking Independence Day with our annual fireworks display, which is free and open to the public! On July 3, head down to the Oakland Beach seawall, where the fireworks will go off at dusk. Area restaurants like Top of the Bay and Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House will be open for business – grab a bite and settle in for amazing fireworks and gorgeous Bay views! City Park is also an ideal spot to catch the display – bring a cooler with some snacks, a blanket or chairs, and enjoy the evening with family and friends.
Goddard State Park and Rocky Point State Park are ideal choices if you’d like to spend the holiday weekend outdoors – both offer walking paths, beautiful water views, and picnic areas. Goddard Park also has a public, nine-hole golf course, 18 miles of bridle trails, 355 picnic tables, and 11 game fields, along with C & L Stables for horseback riding.
There are events and Fourth of July celebrations galore planned throughout Rhode Island this 250th holiday weekend. Warwick’s central location, affordable lodging options, convenient highway access and its role as host to Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport make our community the perfect choice as home base while you enjoy all of the festivities geared toward celebrating the birth of our nation!
Best wishes for a safe and Happy Fourth of July!