top of page

History

In the heart of Newport, Rhode Island—where Colonial and early 19th-century architecture dominate the landscape—a rare Victorian-era gem commands attention. Built in 1885, this ornate structure originally served as one of Newport’s six fire stations, housing Old Torrent No. 1, one of the nation's first organized fire companies. It was home to Newport’s first horse-drawn steam engine until motorized fire trucks took over in 1913. 

However, the steep incline of Mill Street proved too much for the early fire engines, leading to the station’s closure in 1915. The horses, steam engine, and the building itself were sold.​Over the years, the building underwent various uses and periods of neglect. 

IMG_3774 (1).jpeg

A picture of the signatures found behind the wall at the front of the house in the powder room - it shows a date of 1894.

bottom of page