Built in 1811, 416 Thames is a rare example in Newport of a Federal-style mansion. It features an elegant hipped roof, a classically inspired entry portico, and a formal garden. The interior is highlighted by a grand central hallway and hand-carved details. Â
Along with his brother John, Samuel Whitehorne Jr. (1779-1844) made a fortune in Newport through a variety of commercial enterprises in the trans-Atlantic trade system including rum distilling, banking, and shipping. Â Â
Built on Thames Street and proudly facing the water, Whitehorne’s house was a symbol of his prosperity. But after two of his ships were lost at sea, he went bankrupt. Sold at auction in the mid-19th century, the house was later converted to shops and apartments. It was purchased by NRF in 1969 and restored between 1971-1974.Â
