History Space Living History
Life During the Burning of HMS Liberty
Sixth Annual Living History Event
Newport, RI (August 2019) – Newport’s Old Quarter comes to life on Saturday, August 24, 2019 from noon-5 pm, during the Newport Historical Society’s 6th annual summer living history program, Life During the Burning of HMS Liberty. T
he summer of 2019 marks the 250th anniversary of the burning of HMS Liberty, John Hancock’s sloop that was seized by the Royal Navy in 1768.
This often over looked historical incident, which took place in Newport’s harbor three years before HMS Gaspee was burned, is considered one of colonial America’s first acts of defiance against the British Crown.
This one-day event features over 50 costumed historical interpreters who will represent all ages and various stations of life, along with conflicting political viewpoints. Learn and experience aspects of life from 1769 including:
Discussions from Governor Wanton along with residents who witnessed the burning.
Meeting merchants and tradespeople impacted by the non-importation agreements.
Experience a spinning bee presented by Daughters of Liberty at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House.
Visit stations around Washington Square such as a tavern, school and printer.
Much like the Newport Historical Society’s previous summer History Space events, visitors might find themselves in the midst of hostile debates as the living historians recreate the tensions that surrounded this incident which helped to spark the American Revolution.
Life During the Burning of HMS Liberty will take place on Saturday, August 24, 2019, from noon-5 pm in Washington Square, and at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House 17 Broadway, Newport, RI.
Free, donations welcome.
About the Newport Historical Society
Since 1854, the Newport Historical Society has collected and preserved the artifacts, photographs, documents, publications, and genealogical records that relate to the history of Newport County, to make these materials readily available for both research and enjoyment, and to act as a resource center for the education of the public about the history of Newport County, so that knowledge of the past may contribute to a fuller understanding of the present.
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