Power and Politics: The Struggle for the Soul of Providence Tour

Rhode Island has always been a hotbed of dissent and conflict. But for this tour, we'll take a closer look at Rhode Island's internal conflicts, including how Rhode Island's tremendous profit on the international slave trade powered the Industrial Revolution, how the state disenfranchised tens of thousands of immigrant voters in the Progressive Era, all the way through how the state fought but failed to prevent the first Gay Pride parade from taking place in Providence. Providence has also been home to courageous and resilient people who were able to achieve incredible feats despite the deck being stacked against them in every way. Learn about Edward Bannister, a 19th-century Black barber who overcame prejudice to become a painter of national acclaim; Princess Red Wing, a passionate educator, storyteller, and Narragansett and Pokanoket activist; and the 1902 labor strike that stopped Rhode Island's urban core in its tracks.

Private charter boat tour of Sand Hollow State Park
High-quality boats can take up to 18 passengers
Excursion includes safety gear and choice of three water toys
Instructors can teach you skills like wakeboarding and waterskiing

What To Expect

Roger Williams National Memorial

Learn about Providence’s 19th-century race riots, their causes, and their aftermath.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

First Baptist Church in America

Learn about the 1902 streetcar riots that stopped the city in its tracks.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Market House

Learn about Black entrepreneurs of the 18th century, Black artists of the 19th century, and discuss the impact of climate change and storm surge in Rhode Island.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Providence River Walk

Learn about the Gaspee Affair, one of the first violent uprisings against the British in the American colonies.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

The Old State House

Learn about Thomas Wilson Dorr, the “People’s Governor” of Rhode Island.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Providence

Travelers will learn about the city’s tumultuous past.
1 hour 5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Highlight

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Stroller accessible
Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Most travelers can participate
The travel time is included in the total duration of the tour.
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

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Expert Guide

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