Two lanterns were lit at each of Rhode Island’s former State Houses and the current State House on April 18, launching Two Lights for Tomorrow—a nationwide initiative to kick off celebrations for America’s 250th birthday in 2026.
At the Colony House, the Newport Historical Society hosted “Two Lights for Liberty: Sip & Celebrate,” the official kickoff of the city’s semi-quincentennial celebrations. The 286-year-old building is, after all, the fourth-oldest state house still standing in the United States and a critical site of Revolutionary activity.
With Secretary of State Gregg Amore in attendance, Becca Bertrand shared that the Newport Historical Society will present two years of compelling programs, exhibitions, and events to commemorate the 250th anniversary of America. “Some of the earliest acts of resistance and seeds of the Revolution took place here in Newport,” Bertrand observed before introducing Rhode Island 250 Committee Chair Amore.
Amore praised Bertrand and her team for doing a tremendous job sharing the city’s rich history and noted that more events will take place in Newport and across the state.
Bertrand had barely begun to thank the sponsors when a loud banging erupted at the front door—and Paul Revere burst into the party. Brody Karn, embodying the famed revolutionist, delivered a riveting account of Revere’s April 18, 1775 ride to a captivated audience that included Elizabeth Leatherman, Richard Crisson, Rod O’Hanley, Victoria Cimino, and Peter Coriander.
When the excitement died down, guests wandered to the corner to enjoy Martha Washington Rum Punch, served by mixologists Maria Chiancola and Sophia Pendergast. Staying true to the Rhode Island spirit, the event also featured beverages from local vineyards and breweries.
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