If this building could speak, it would tell the remarkable tale of a city's transformation.
The Antram-Gray House, the oldest surviving commercial building in Providence, was built around 1730 as a residence and distillery.
It soon found itself at the center of a bustling waterfront district.
As inland manufacturing replaced maritime trade, the waterfront around the house was filled in.
Over time, ownership of the house changed from wealthy merchants to small businessmen.
The National Park Service purchased this "witness to history" in 1974 to serve as the national memorial's visitor center.
Pre-Revolution
1738 - 1765
The William Antram family operated a distillery here in early Providence's maritime district.
At that time, a wharf was part of the house lot.
Revolutionary War
1772 - 1783
During the war, the house was a shop where residents could buy milk, cheese, and French brandy among other items.
Providence emerged from the war as the commercial center of Rhode Island.
Birth of a City
1831 - 1832
A four-day clash between white sailors and local black residents of the nearby Snowtown neighborhood left four dead and many wounded.
The Snowtown Riot motivated town residents to incorporate Providence in
1832.
National Park Service
1965 - present
Today, the Antram-Gray House serves as the memorial visitor center.
Stop in to view a short film, explore interpretive exhibits, and find out about special programs.
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