NRF promotes and invests in the architectural heritage of the Newport community, the traditional building trades, and Doris Duke’s fine and decorative arts collections, for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of all.
As a leader in the preservation of early American architecture, NRF supports research and education in areas directly related to its collections and issues of critical concern to the field of historic preservation.
Tour Doris Duke’s art-filled mansion and enjoy panoramic ocean views from the extensive grounds, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Open late March to November.
Experience the only museum in the world specializing in 18th-century Newport furniture and related decorative arts. Open late May to October.
Explore 40 acres of open space, a tribute to the agrarian heritage of Aquidneck Island. The site is open daily from dawn to dusk for public enjoyment.
Newport Restoration Foundation holds one of the largest collections of period architecture owned by a single organization anywhere in the United States.
Celebrate excellence in historic preservation efforts within the City of Newport, Rhode Island.
Live amidst history by renting one of our many historic properties.
Help us to continue a lived-in legacy by becoming a Restoration Partner today.
The month of August is jam-packed with fun activities that continue to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Newport Restoration Foundation. We’ll be looking back at — and sometimes reviving — what Doris Duke and others were up to around the time of its founding and much more! Please mark your calendars for special events including:
A Perfect Storm: The Collision of Hurricanes, Climate Change and Coastal Population Growth Newport Historical Society Resource Center August 1 / 5:00 – 7:00 pm $10 – $5 NHS members & NRF tenants
Jeff Donnelly, a climatologist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, will discuss the historical links between hurricanes, climate change, and the population growth along the coast. Please register for this event by calling 401-846-0813 x110 or email hrockwood@newporthistory.org.
Gene Smith’s Sink and the Mid-Century Underground Jazz Scene Rough Point August 2 / 5:30 – 7:00 pm $15 in advance, $20 at the door
This talk follows the footsteps of legendary mid-century photographer Eugene Smith and his New York City “jazz loft,” which became an afterhours haunt for the likes of Thelonious Monk, Zoot Sims, and yes… even Doris Duke.
Gardening with the Masters: The Three Sisters Technique Prescott Farm August 5 / 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, Lecture begins at 11:00 am Free Event
Join the Master Gardeners for another special presentation this month at Prescott Farm. On Sunday, August 5 at 11 am, Betsy McClintock will speak about the “The Three Sisters Growing Technique”. In this lecture, learn the history, legend and practical use of Three Sisters Gardening and see a growing example at Prescott Farm. The Guard House and 1812 Windmill will also be open and staffed for public enjoyment.
Whitehorne House Museum Open House August 9 / 5:00 – 7:00 pm Free Event
A fixture of Lower Thames Street for almost 45 years, it’s time for some change at Whitehorne House Museum! Explore the collection of 18th-century Newport furniture for the first time or come back to hear about plans for the revitalization. The museum’s charming pocket garden will also be open for wandering.
Camelot vs. the Counterculture: Fashion and Society in the 1960s Rough Point August 23 / 5:30 – 7:00 pm $15 in advance, $20 at the door
Jackie Kennedy in the White House and Grace Slick at Woodstock. This illustrated talk explores the tangled web of fashion, culture, and society in the 1960s. This event is sponsored by the Costume Society of America, Northeast Chapter.
Ask a Gardener Rough Point August 25 / 11:00 am, weather permitting Included with admission to the house or grounds
Every last Saturday of the month, estate gardeners share their expertise on a range of topics from plant identification to organic garden care. Get insider tips on how to make your own garden as lush as the gardens at Rough Point.
For more information on all events, visit www.NewportRestoration.org/events.
