Downtown Providence in Providence County, Rhode Island — The American Northeast (New England)
Roger Williams National Memorial
National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), May 4, 2023
Welcome to the birthplace of religious freedom in the United States. Roger Williams, fleeing religious persecution in England and Massachusetts Bay Colony, founded Providence here in 1636. The original inhabitants, the Narragansett and Wampanoag, have lived in this area for thousands of years. They taught the early settlers much about living here on the shores of what was once a great saltwater cove. Later, Providence bustled with maritime trade and played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution.
We invite you to explore this history and reflect on Williams's vision of Liberty of Conscience as you enjoy the memorial and Providence.
John Brown House Museum
Explore our nation's early social and cultural history at the Rhode Island Historical Society.
Brown University
Tour the campus of one of the country's oldest universities.
First Baptist Church in America
Visit the meeting house of the oldest Baptist congregation in america, which was gathered by Roger Williams in 1638.
The Old State House
Stand where Rhode Island declared its independence on May 4, 1776, two months before the rest of the colonies.
Prospect Park
Take in the panoramic view of Providence from the Roger Williams statue that marks his final resting place.
Antram-Gray House
Memorial Visitor Center
For almost 300 years, this building has witnessed the growth and transformation of Providence.
Roger Williams National Memorial
Discover the Roger Williams story and begin your exploration of Providence here.
Waterplace Park
Walk along the river and discover year-round public art and cultural events.
Rhode Island State House
See the home of the state's General Assembly, one of the largest domes in the world, and the 1663 Rhode Island Charter.
Erected by National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.
Topics. This historical marker and memorial is listed in these topic lists: Churches & Religion • Colonial Era • Education • Government & Politics • Native Americans • Settlements & Settlers • War, US Revolutionary • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical date for this entry is May 4, 1776.
Location. 41° 49.843′ N, 71° 24.647′ W. Marker is in Providence, Rhode Island, in Providence County. It is in Downtown Providence. Marker is at the intersection of North Main Street (U.S. 44) and Church Street, on the left when traveling north on North Main Street. Touch for map
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), May 4, 2023
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Wellspring of Providence (a few steps from this marker); A Shelter for Persons Distressed (a few steps from this marker); The Original Water Supply (within shouting distance of this marker); Roger Williams Founded Providence Here in 1636 (within shouting distance of this marker); Gabriel Bernon (within shouting distance of this marker); Seasonal Gathering (within shouting distance of this marker); A Livelie Experiment (within shouting distance of this marker); The Cathedral of St. John (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Providence.
Credits. This page was last revised on May 7, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 7, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 62 times since then and 23 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 7, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.