The large and fragrant white lilacs that grace the west side of the NHS headquarters building on Touro Street is in full bloom. Legend has it that this shrub, towering to the second story of the building, is descended from lilacs that the French brought to Newport in 1780 when they came to aid the patriot cause during the American Revolution. Throughout history, lilacs have been known as “the poor man’s flower” for their ease of transporting and transplanting.
Lilacs can be found throughout Newport; while we do not know if the legend is true, this ancient “Newport Historical” specimen is particularly lovely.
The lilac shrub in full bloom at NHS headquarters.