Resource Center

Your source for collections and research on Newport's history

Resources for Research

  • Access & Research

    Remote Research Services & Research Appointments
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  • Edward W. Kane Library

    Genealogy, Property Research & More
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  • Collections

    Photographs, Manuscripts & Artifacts
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Search Our Collections Online

Search & Discover

Please note, only a portion of our holdings are available online

Contact us for more information about our full collection.

Contact us

The Resource Center

The Resource Center is home to the Newport Historical Society’s main offices, Edward W. Kane Library, Hugh D. Auchincloss III Reading Room, and secure collections storage. Collections document the history of Newport County and consist of approximately 10,000 objects, 12,000 books, over 1,500 linear feet of manuscript materials, and more than 200,000 photographs.

Our Resource Center remains closed for walk-in researchers. Appointments must be made in advance, and are contingent on staff availability, the latest R.I. health guidance, and the availability of relevant resources within our collection. For more information, please email research@newporthistory.org or call 401-846-0813, ext. 190.

Make an appointment

Quick Guide for Research

  • Access

    You must make an appointment to access our collections.

  • Fees

    Edward W. Kane Library appointments are $5/hour. Appointments to see photographs or manuscripts are $10/hour.

  • Hugh D. Auchincloss III Reading Room

    All personal belongings must be stored in lockers in the Hamilton Family Atrium. Food, drinks and pens are forbidden.

  • Photography

    Monitored personal photography is permitted, with restrictions and for a fee: $5 for NHS members, $25 for non-members.

  • Image Use

    Images from the collection may be reproduced only with written consent of the NHS.

  • Staff Research

    Can't come in-person? NHS staff can conduct research on your behalf for $75/hr. The first half hour is free.

  • Member & Student Rates

    Some research-related costs are reduced for students and NHS members.

More Information

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History Bytes: Bunker Hill Connections

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Director’s Note: ‘The World in Motion’ Exhibit

Museum exhibits, suggests Secretary of the Smithsonian Lonnie Bunch, have...

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Academic Opportunities

Check out opportunities and programs for students at NHS
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Questions about collections?

Call (401) 846-0813 x190, or email research@newporthistory.org

Contact us