William Vernon House (Newport, RI)

The William Vernon House is one of Newport’s most historic buildings. In November 2009, the house was formally donated to the Newport Restoration Foundation. The Vernon House is not “just another Colonial House”; it is one of the most important buildings in Newport due to its history and its architecture. It has a rich history starting in 1713 when a well-noted painter, William Gibbs, first constructed a dwelling on the site. In 1760, Metcalf Bowler transformed the home into the structure that stands today. Its namesake, William Vernon, purchased the house in 1774. It is one of four surviving 18^th-century Newport buildings with rusticated siding, and it is one of the finest examples of the formal Georgian style architecture. The home played a critical role during the American Revolution, serving as the headquarters for Commander-in-Chief of the French forces, Comte de Rochambeau. Important historical figures like George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette spent time at the house.

Repair the first-floor structural framing, which shows signs of its age.

$19,000

FHS Boston and New York Chapters

2023