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.
Newport Restoration Foundation is deeply saddened by the recent passing of our Chair Emerita, Mrs. Marion Oates “Oatsie” Charles on December 5, 2018. Mrs. Charles was the longest serving NRF board member, serving for 37 years (1977-2014). For many of those years, the NRF board consisted of founder Doris Duke, Jackie Kennedy, Alletta Morris McBean, and later, J. Carter Brown. Mrs. Charles served as President of the Board of Trustees, and was a dear friend of Doris Duke.
In her will, Doris Duke named Mrs. Charles as one of two trustees for the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. She served on the DDCF board from its founding in 1996, including as its Vice Chairman. She was named Trustee Emerita in 2008.
In 2010, Mrs. Charles received the Distinguished Steward Award at the Doris Duke Historic Preservation Awards in recognition of her support for preservation in Newport and Washington, D.C. She was also one of the driving forces behind the remodel of Queen Anne Square in Newport, spearheading the effort to hire Maya Lin to design “The Meeting Room,” as a public tribute to Doris Duke.
The Newport Restoration Foundation and the broader Newport community has lost a valued member and leader. Mrs. Charles was beloved by all for her dedication, graciousness and sense of humor. NRF would like to recognize Mrs. Charles for her significant contributions and service, and will continue to celebrate her as a tireless advocate for preservation in Newport. Thank you, Mrs. Charles.
The family plans a memorial service in Newport in June. We are honored that, in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Newport Restoration Foundation.
