More Rhode Island Firsts . . .
1774: The first circus in the U.S. was performed in Newport, Rhode Island.
Address: Newport County Visitors Bureau,
23 Americas Cup Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island 02840-3050; 401-849-8048;
800-976-5122. Web: http://www.gonewport.com.
1778: On August 29, 1778, during the Battle of Rhode Island the First Rhode Island Regiment, comprised primarily of black soldiers, made a gallant stand which thwarted a British attempt to flank the American line centered on Butts Hill.
1785: Bristol, Rhode Island began celebrating the 4th of July Independence Day with the longest running, unbroken series of celebrations.
Address: Bristol Fourth of July Celebration,
Bristol, Rhode Island 02809; 401-253-0445.
1793: Samuel Slater built a water-powered cotton mill in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, thus beginning the American textile industry. Slater Mill is now known as the Birthplace of American Industry.
Address: Slater Mill History Museum,
67 Roosevelt Avenue, P O Box 696, Pawtucket, Rhode Island 02862-0696; 402-725-8638;
Fax: 725-8638. Email: info@slatermill.org.
Web:
http://www.slatermill.org.
1876: Polo was first played in the U.S. near Newport, Rhode Island.
Address: Newport County Visitors Bureau,
23 Americas Cup Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island 02840-3050; 401-849-8048;
800-976-5122. Web: http://www.gonewport.com.
