William Vernon House

One of the most important buildings in Newport, the Georgian-style Vernon House hosted major historical figures and played a key role during the American Revolution.

Site History

The William Vernon House is one of the most important buildings in Newport due to its history and its architecture. Its origins date to 1713, when the noted painter William Gibbs first constructed a dwelling on the site. In 1760, Newport merchant Metcalf Bowler transformed the home into the structure that stands today. William Vernon, for whom the house is named, purchased it in 1774. 

The house is one of four surviving 18th-century Newport buildings with rusticated siding, and one of the finest examples of the formal Georgian style of architecture. It played a critical role during the American Revolution, serving as the headquarters for the Commander in Chief of the French forces, Comte de Rochambeau. Important historical figures like George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette spent time there.

About the Project

This project will repair the first-floor structural framing, which shows signs of its age. A significant portion of the framing, as observed from the basement, has been structurally compromised by wood rot and wood-boring insects. Several joists and portions of timbers have also been trimmed or notched by electricians or plumbers. The first-floor framing should be increased to allow a capacity of 100 pounds per square foot. In 2017, the Vernon House received an FHS restoration grant in the amount of $13,000, which was supported by the New York Chapter.

William Vernon House Today

In November 2009, the William Vernon House was formally donated to the Newport Restoration Foundation. Tours are provided to small groups of historians, preservationists, grant funders, individual donors, and colleagues from museums and cultural sites. Students from Rhode Island universities and high schools are welcome to tour the house as well.