Preservation Society launches ‘Gilded Age Newport in Color’ exhibition

NEWPORT, R.I. (WLNE) — The Preservation Society of Newport County and the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society launched the exhibition “Gilded Age Newport in Color” at Rosecliff.

This exhibit takes visitors back to the late 19th century into the early 20th century, when African heritage families  were active members in the resort community.

Through June 30th, the exhibit will display over 150 photographs, handbills, business cards, and news clippings along with furniture, clothing, jewelry, and ceramics from the collections of the RI Black Heritage Society and other preservation institutions.

Visitors will walk through the exhibit to learn about everyday life in the African heritage community of Gilded Age Newport, including living, the workforce, leisure activities, travel, and worship services.

Executive Director of the RI Black Heritage Society Tina “Soni” Guzman Stokes said, “The ‘Gilded Age Newport in Color’ exhibition explores an important chapter in American history when African heritage families could unite and promote their economic and social well-being through self-reliance, entrepreneurism, political advancement and cultural interchange.”

“Rhode Island’s Black Heritage Society has drawn from its over 9,000 linear feet of collections representing an African heritage experience that dramatically marks African heritage excellence. As best described by Booker T. Washington, America’s leading civil rights advocate of the Gilded Age, ‘Success always leaves footprints,” she shared.

Trudy Coxe, CEO of the Preservation Society commented, “We are proud to continue telling stories of the Gilded Age from different perspectives that give us a broader understanding of Newport during this important era.”