Colony House, Washington Square
Clingstone and the Robinson House are Newport landmarks, one on the harbor and one in the bay. Though the properties were built during different eras they hold a family
Clingstone, image from the NHS Collections
connection. Henry Wood will present “From Protection to Nature to the Environment: Three Centuries, Two Houses, One Family”, an evening lecture that features these unique properties.
“Quaker Tom” Robinson’s house in Newport was built in the 18th century as a merchant’s home. It provided protection from the outdoors. When it was ‘updated’ as a summer home in the late 19th century by Charles McKim it was, in contrast, opened to the outdoors and nature, adding a sweeping porch overlooking the bay.
In 1905 a Robinson cousin, Joseph Samuel Lovering Wharton, built Clingstone on one of the Dumplings off Jamestown. Clingstone was was specifically designed around the outdoors: the oceanscape and the rock itself. After being acquired by one of “Quaker Tom’s” descendants it has gradually evolved in concert with the natural environment: wind for power, the roof for fresh water, sunshine for hot water and more power, and degradation for waste. What will the next century bring?
Admission costs $5 per person, $1 for Newport Historical Society members. Reservations requested. Persons with mobility issues should call in advance. 401-841-8770
The Robinson-Wood House, image from the NHS Collections