Sparking a Revolution

Warwick, Rhode Island’s incendiary past helped jump-start America’s fight for freedom

Before the Boston Tea Party and the battles of Lexington and Concord, the First Blow for Freedom TM leading to the Revolutionary War was the burning of the British schooner HMS Gaspee in the waters off historic Pawtuxet Village in 1772. For 60 years now, Gaspee Days celebrations throughout May and June in this seaport hamlet commemorate the night that local patriots rowed quietly down the Providence River, boarded and burned the ship in defiance of British authority.

The Pawtuxet Rangers, RIM, will play an integral part in this celebration. A cannon blast at 10 a.m. will open the event. The Rangers will have an encampment in authentic Revolutionary style – including no electronics! – to give a flavor of what life was like in the 1700s.

Throughout the day, the Rangers will perform training and marching exercises and other demonstrations, and their Fife & Drum Corps will play. Musket men will fire when needed during training exercises and at displays.

A Colonial-era fashion show, which will have a narrator to explain each period outfit and describe a bit of what everyday life was like, is also planned.

The Warwick Public Library will have activities, and folks from Old Sturbridge Village will be also be taking part, offering informational materials as well as running interactive kid- and teen-friendly handicrafts from the period.

There will be antique children’s toys and other historic artifacts, such as a butter churn and other common household items and tools, on display from the Clouds Hill Victorian House Museum & the Warwick Historical Society. 

There will also be modern touches, like food trucks, the National Guard climbing wall, face painting and balloon animals for all to enjoy. Planning is also underway for a musical competition – stay tuned for more details on this Revolutionary War era meets modern music showdown!

Additional Information & Events can be found on https://visitwarwickri.com/warwicks-250th-celebration/