The East Providence Public Library is hosting “Roving Roger” at Weaver Library during March and April 2023.
Roving Roger is a 7-foot-tall statue of Roger Williams who comes to us through the Rhode Island State Archives. Started by former Secretary of State, Nellie Gorbea, and continued by current Secretary of State Gregg Amore, the “Traveling Treasures” program aims to highlight the rich and diverse history of our state and increase awareness and knowledge of Rhode Island’s founder.
Traveling with the statue are panels that highlight Williams’ pioneering role in establishing freedom of religion and separation of church and state in the American colonies, as well as his authorship of the first translation dictionary of the Narragansett dialect into English.
The statue was commissioned in 1960 by the Roger Williams Savings and Loan Association. It stood outside the S&L’s building at 270 Westminster St. in Providence from 1960 until 1983, when it was donated to the Roger Williams National Memorial, also in downtown Providence.
The Rhode Island State Archives acquired the statue in 2017 and restored it to be the centerpiece of the “Roving Roger” exhibit.
Look for a variety of programs for adults and children focused on Roger Williams and the state of Rhode Island. These programs will take place at all three of our locations during the months of March and April.
For more information, please go to our Calendar of Events at