On Sunday November 14th at 2pm, at the Colony House on Washington Square, explore the history of the French occupation of Newport and uncover the stories of French soldiers and sailors and American citizens who shared the city of Newport during Allies at Home: The French Occupation of Newport 1780-1781.
Keagle will discuss how for nearly a year during the Revolutionary War Newporters shared the city with nearly 12,000 French soldiers and sailors. French military aid was vital to American Independence, but great cultural barriers had to be overcome before the new allies could work successfully together. In Newport the French and their American allies were forced to come to terms with their national differences while accomplishing the task of defeating the British. It was in Newport’s streets and homes that the French and Americans achieved their first victories, not on the battlefield but in the hearts and minds of soldiers and civilians on both sides. The eventual success against the British, ending the war, was due in no small part to the French troops’ first exposure to America and Americans in Rhode Island. Admission costs $5 per person, $1 for Newport Historical Society members. Persons with mobility issues should call 401-841-8770 in advance. This program is generously sponsored by the Alliance Française of Newport.