Governor, Mayor Launch Independence Trail

Three-mile trail highlights more than four centuries of Rhode Island history, culture, architecture and folklore.

Governor Lincoln Chafee and Providence Mayor Angel Taveras joined together today to celebrate Rhode Island Independence Day with the unveiling of the Independence Trail - a walking tour of history, culture, architecture and folklore in downtown Providence.

The celebration and press conference was held inside the Old State House at 150 Benefit Street, in the same room and on the 235th anniversary that the Rhode Island General Assembly repealed its allegiance to the British crown.

The three-mile Independence Trail includes about 75 historical sites in downtown Providence, and covers more than four centuries of Rhode Island history, culture, architecture and folklore - including the birthplace of religious freedom, the site of the first shot in the fight against England, the spot where Lincoln spoke, a house where George Washington slept, and a statue of General Ambrose Burnside - the Civil War General from Rhode Island whose famous facial hair coined the phrase "sideburns."

"I have consistently stated that we must capitalize on our existing assets for job creation and economic growth, and Rhode Island's rich and unique history is one of its foremost assets," Governor Chafee said. "I am pleased to sign this memorandum of understanding with Mayor Taveras on a particularly appropriate day: May 4, the same date 235 years ago that Rhode Island broke its ties with the British Crown. The Independence Trail we are establishing today will further cement Providence and Rhode Island as a national destination for anyone interested in our country's history," said Governor Chafee.

Mayor Taveras said: "The launch of the Independence Trail is a great opportunity to highlight the pivotal role the Capital City has played in the history of our state and our nation. The Trail will offer Rhode Islanders and all visitors who come to Providence a fun and exciting way to explore historical and cultural sites, as well as see some of the best of what Providence has to offer. We are proud to collaborate with the Governor on this great project."

The development of the trail will be overseen by the nonprofit Independence Trail Educational Foundation, which will manage, promote and maintain the trail. The event was emceed by Robert I. Burke, a Providence restaurateur and historical enthusiast, founded the Independence Trail Educational Foundation.

(Click on the thumbnail on the left to download a PDF of the Map of the Independence Trail)

Martha Sheridan, president and CEO of the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, said the Independence Trail will provide a valuable boost to Rhode Island's tourism industry - the state's fourth largest economic driver.

Governor Chafee, Mayor Taveras and Mr. Burke used a quill pen to sign a memorandum of agreement on parchment between the state, city and foundation establishing the Independence Trail. Governor Chafee read a Proclamation declaring May 4 Rhode Island Independence Day.

Mr. Burke gave a virtual tour of the Independence Trail on a 55-inch, high-definition screen. The National Guard concluded the celebration with a 13-gun salute in back of the Old State House.