Aquidneck Land Trust (“ALT”) and the City of Newport, as part of the Newport Open Space Partnership, announce new summer hours for the historic tower in Miantonomi Park as part of the Annual Miantonomi Exploration Days. The tower will be open and free to the public every Sunday from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, beginning June 18 and ending August 27. In addition to the open tower, increased summer programming is planned for the park by the Newport Open Space Partnership (“NOSP”), a collaboration of local non-profits and the City, which has been developing an Open Space Master Plan for Newport’s parks and open spaces. Miantonomi Park is the largest park in Newport and features walking trails, wildlife and several historic sites. It was conserved by ALT in 2005.
“We encourage all Islanders and visitors to experience the tremendous view from the tower,” said Chuck Allott, ALT’s Executive Director. “Over 500 people climbed it last August over a four-day period and we are thrilled to increase the number of open days this summer. The tower is truly one of Newport’s treasures.”
Scott Wheeler, Buildings and Grounds Supervisor/Tree Warden for the City of Newport, added, “We are excited to once again host Miantonomi Exploration Days. The view of the City afforded by climbing the tower is truly spectacular, and it’s a good opportunity for people to explore all the other amenities offered by this great Newport park.”
Established as a World War One memorial park, Miantonomi Park includes Miantonomi Hill, the highest point in Newport. The Hill, once the seat of power for the Narragansett Indians, has housed colonial beacons, revolutionary war fortifications, and finally, a 1929 memorial tower designed by Meade, McKim and White. With the assistance of the Aquidneck Land Trust, Sunset Hill has been added to the park with its revolutionary war earthen redoubt.
