Posted in Rhode Island
July 13, 2020
One Of The First Newspapers In The Country Was Published Inside This Rhode Island House
Rhode Island is loaded with local history, which is one of the many things we love about it. But did you know that one of the first newspapers in the entire country was published right here at Hunter House? This 18th-century mansion is a historic treasure.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

When the house was built, Newport was a cosmopolitan city, known for its religious tolerance.

After his death, Colonel Joseph Wanton, Jr. purchased the property. He added a south wing to the house and transforming it into a true mansion.

To pass news on to the other French soldiers, a French newspaper was printed. That publication became the first newspaper printed by an expeditionary force.

Colonel Wanton ended up fleeing town with his family because of his Royalist sympathies, so the French took possession of the mansion. During all the madness, running the newspaper was just too big of an effort.

The house endured a series of owners from the mid-1860s to the mid-1940s. The Preservation Society of Newport County has since restored it to the era of Colonel Wanton.

For a small fee, you can tour the home and the property and learn more about this historic gem.

And with so much history taking place inside those walls, it's a well-deserved title.
Have you ever explored Hunter House?
Address: 12 Sanderson Rd, Greenville, RI 02828, USA