Linden Place Celebrates Juneteenth with the Installation of Slave Medallion
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Volume 20 Issue 1 Summer 2021
Linden Place Celebrates Juneteenth with the
Installation of Slave Medallion
Left: Rhode Island Slave Medallions Project Creator, Charles Roberts, speaks to the importance of remembrance and healing.
Right: members of the Pokonoket tribe performed a land acknowledgement and blessing.
Photo credits: Richard W. Dionne, Jr. Courtesy of East Bay Media Group.
Executive Director Susan Battle welcomed a crowd of close to 200 people to the celebration and culmination of the Rhode
Island Slave Medallions (RISHM) project at Linden Place on June 19th. Charles Roberts, Executive Director of RISHM, began the
program which he produced and directed by sharing his thoughts on the importance of the community to come together for a healing
remembrance and celebratory commemoration. The Rhode Island Slave History Medallions (RISHM) organization is a statewide
public awareness program committed to marking those historic sites connected to the history of slavery in Rhode Island.
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, Senator Jack Reed, and Governor Dan McKee all spoke eloquently about the meaning of the day –
a three-fold celebration of the recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday, the designation of the newly designated Revolutionary
Scenic Byway which passes through Bristol, and the continuing work of marking historical sites in Rhode Island connected with the
business of slavery.
To prepare for the event, Linden Place drew on the research and essays that our History
Re-Examination and Re-Evaluation Committee of Board Members and volunteers has
been working on so diligently. Concurrent with that work is the creation of a new audio
tour of the Mansion that guests will be able to absorb as they experience the 200 year
history that the mansion can share with them.
That research was also used as the basis for eight informative banners that were placed
in the gardens, each focused on a specific topic: The Land, which told the story of the
Pokanoket Nation and the indigenous people of the Sowams Heritage Area; The Voyages,
which described the database of the 934 documented slave voyages that commenced in
Rhode Island from 1705 to 1897, with details on the ships owned by George DeWolf; The
Enslaved, which shared census data from 1748 to 1820 and painted a picture of people
of color in Bristol during that time frame, and “The Plantations” described conditions
in Cuba. Other posters told the stories of Rosalie and John Hopper, of Daniel Tanner,
and a timeline of the mansion itself. Visit https://www.lindenplace.org/about-us/news
continued next page
Above: Students from RWU did extensive research on the history
of the slave trade in Bristol as well as the storied of the enslaved.
Below: DeWolf descendents man one of the “Ask me a question” tables.
Photo credits: Richard W. Dionne, Jr. Courtesy of East Bay Media Group.
1
(continued from front page)
Informational tables, which we called “Ask Me A Question” kiosks, were heavily Linden Place Museum News
visited by our guests. We are thankful to DeWolf Fulton, Ray Payson and Mary Millard published by
for their expertise at the DeWolf Family table; to Dr. David Weed of the Sowams
FRIENDS OF LINDEN PLACE
Heritage Area for his expertise on indigenous people; to Robert Geake for discussing
500 Hope Street, PO Box 328
the Rhode Island Plantations and the First Rhode Island Regiment with all who were
Bristol, Rhode Island 02809
eager for information.
Tel: (401) 253-0390 Fax: (401) 253-4106
Professor Charlotte Carrington Farmer gave the keynote address. Her Roger lindenplace.org
Williams University students used handouts and posters to paint a compelling picture
© 2005 Friends of Linden Place, Inc., all rights reserved.
of those of African heritage who lived in Bristol at the time of the Revolution, and those
who were brought to the Caribbean via the Triangle Trade and the Middle Passage as
forced free labor on the sugar and coffee plantations. 2021 Directory
Guests lingered in the gardens after the formal program, and took home with them
a special package of sugar and molasses cookies, which symbolically represented the Officers
Triangle Trade.
President
An important part of telling a more complete and accurate accounting of the Linda DuBois
history that is all around us in Bristol is to acknowledge and thank those who came Vice-President
before us – the indigenous Americans already on this land before European settlers Charles Millard
arrived. Linden Place and the land it occupies were humbled to receive the blessings
Treasurer
of Tracey Brown, Dancing Star; Dr. William “Winds of Thunder” Guy, Sagamore of the
Garry Holmstrom
Pokanoket Nation, and other members of the tribe. In addition, the African Dancers
and Drummers of Mali represented the millions of Africans who suffered the Middle Secretary
Passage to the Americas. Ralph Kinder
As Susan Battle said in her remarks: “This tapestry today will give us all a new way Board of Directors
to see the history that is all around us, and to experience a story that is richer, fuller,
deeper, and more inclusive.” She described the day as a first step in supporting Linden Bern Altman
Place’s aspiration and vision to become a safe space to have difficult discussions, and Steve Aveson
reaffirmed our commitment to continue to support a diversity of voices in lifting up Paul Burmeister
their stories. Jane Lavender
Celebrate and honor RI’s Portuguese Culture and Tradition Christy Nadalin
Chris Ponder
Friday, August
6 let yourself be MaryAnn Salesi
transported to the Madeline Smith
streets and taverns Eileen Sweeney
of Lisbon as Linden
Place hosts an Brian Travers
intimate evening Natalie Urban
of live Fado Music
accompanied by Board MemberS Appointed
Portuguese inspired Bristol Historical Society
food and wines. Cliff Morey
Fado is a form of Bristol Art Museum
Portuguese urban folk music that grew out of Lisbon in the 19th Century and known Peggy Frederick
for its mournful melodies and lyrics, often about the sea, neighborhoods, or the life Town of Bristol
of the poor. The fadista, draped in black, sings solemn songs surrounding the theme Timothy Sweeney
of ‘saudade,’ meaning nostalgia or melancholia. The whole experience is designed
to emotionally move spectators, with many fadistas judging the success of their
Staff
performances by the number of teary eyes at the end of a song.
Executive Director
The evening begins with passed foods and wines served in the tented courtyard Susan Battle
of Linden Place from 6pm-7pm. Then guests are welcomed into the ballroom, set in a
traditional club setting, for the musical performance with acclaimed Fadistas, Sandy Museum Administrator
Batista and Jose Azeverito joined by Abel Lima on viola and Jose Silva on guitar. Joseph Velleca
Caretaker
Reservations for this memorable night are limited for an intimate experience.
Mark Baker
Tickets are $65, $60 for Linden Place members and include Portuguese hor d’oeuvres
and wines. Tickets can be purchased at www.lindenplace.org or by calling the office
at (401) 253-0390.
2
Linden Place Receives $9,500 Matching Grant for
Ballroom Cupola Restoration
Left image:
the ballroom’s
weathervane, likely a
“rampant colt” was
broken many years
ago. The grant will
replace this
important original
element. Right:
The 1906 ballroom
is home to many
programs, weddings
and special events
throughout the year.
In May, Linden Place received the exciting news that we Since the Friends of Linden Place took ownership of the
are the recipient of a generous $9,500 matching grant from The estate, the ballroom has given the organization the ability to sustain
1772 Foundation and Preserve Rhode Island to restore the 1906 our preservation and restoration efforts through fundraisers and
ballroom’s cupola and weathervane. Work will commence in late special event rentals. Over the past several years, the cupola has
July, and we invite you to watch the transformation. begun to leak into the ballroom making this project essential to
While the mansion usually gets most of the attention, Linden the building’s preservation.
Place’s ballroom is an important element of the estate’s long While this grant was essential to getting this project
history. Samuel P. Colt’s cousin and DeWolf descendent, Wallis completed, it is YOU, our members and friends, who provide the
E. Howe, a notable Rhode Island architect whose career spanned matching funds. Thank you for making this happen!
over 60 years and is credited for dozens of public and private
buildings throughout the state, designed the ballroom. Colt built
the ballroom to host large-scale parties, in particular, the 100th Preservation in Action
birthday of Linden Place Mansion in 1910. thanks to YOU and:
Second Floor Facelift
One hundred years of wear and tear will distress any floor.
The Friends of Linden Place decided it was time to refinish the
upstairs hall and Bullock bedroom floors. Speculation abounded as
to what type of wood they might be. A sample was sent off to the
United States Forestry Service for analysis: it was determined that
the floor is Betula sp., or commonly known as Sweet Birch. Sweet
Birch is frequently used for flooring. Birch is a very heavy, strong,
durable wood. It is hard and stiff, with excellent shock-resistance.
The next time you visit Linden Place, give the floors a close
look and tell us what you think!
Top: The mansion hallway before floor refinishing.
Right: Mansion hallway after floor refinishing and new
interpretation by museum curator, David Harrington.
3
Art Bloomed at Linden Place in May
To kick off May with color and style, Linden Place Mansion
hosted its first ever “Art Blooming at Linden Place” weekend.
The historic 1810 mansion, its collections and gardens served
as an inspirational backdrop to dozens of original artwork and
floral arrangements created by local artists and designers. We are
thankful for all the artists who participated and all the volunteers
who helped make it happen.
The weekend began with a “sneak peek” preview catered by
Russell Morin Catering and Events, with lovely music provided by
Your Favorite Brass Quintet. Then all day Saturday and Sunday,
over 200 guests visited Linden Place, many bringing Mom along
as a special Mother’s Day treat. Each visitor was given a ballot
to vote on their favorites in six different categories.
Above: The conservatory was inspiration for several original
artworks and floral arrangements. Left: The bathroom was
transformed into a floral wonderland by Greenlion Design.
Below: Joanne Murrman (right), chairperson of Art Blooming,
and artist Mary Ellen Dwyer, at Art Blooming’s opening reception.
Below right: Artist, Gail Burmeister and her husband and board
member, Paul, enjoy the opening reception of Art Blooming”
Photo credit: Julie Brigidi
Our Winners:
Allie Heimos, Most Creative Interpretation Art, for her
sculpture of glass panels that were inspired by the glass windows
of the conservatory.
Kathy Hawes, Most Creative Interpretation, Flowers for her
arrangement inspired by a painting in our collection, “The Wreck
of the Hesperus”.
Ginny Morse, Most colorful, art, for her delightful painting
of our center hallway and circular staircase.
Carol Glanville, Most Colorful, Flowers, for filling the mantle
in Samuel P. Colt’s bedroom with a happy riot of color...
Gina Croce, Most WOW Factor, Art, for her multiple
paintings inspired by the gracious lines and classic style of our
outdoor statuary.
And then - a dead heat tie for the Most WOW Factor, Flowers:
Bristol/Bayberry Garden Clubs, for their majestic display of
roses that graced our hallway and greeted every visitor upon arrival.
AND
Julie Christina, whose massive but soft and romantic
arrangement was the center of attention on our dining room table, We are so thankful to volunteer Joanne Murrman in leading
and was echoed on the mantle in the same room. this effort, Lynn Smith for overseeing artist registrations, and a
Finally, for the display that garnered the most votes in all three shout-all to all the volunteers who came to help, and especially
flower categories of colorful, interpretive, and WOW - Greenlion to the Linden Place staff who kept everything moving smoothly.
Designs, who turned the upstairs bathroom into a delightful surfeit The weekend “looked” effortless, but only with a lot of hard work
of flowers and fun, we had to designate a Fan Favorite/Most behind the scenes does that happen.
Overall Votes award!
4
Community Reading of Frederick Douglass’
Iconic Speech a Moving and Memorable Event
On Sunday June 27 Linden Place hosted the first outdoor
community reading of Frederick Douglass’ iconic 1852 speech
“What, to the Slave, is the Fourth of July.” Led by the incomparable
Joe Wilson, Jr. of the Trinity Reparatory Company, citizens in
our audience of over 100 people came to the mic spontaneously
to lift up their voices and read one of the 44 paragraphs of the
speech. “As we read,” said Mr. Wilson, “we will hear themes
– and challenges – and advice – that will resonate as we think
about similar challenges that we are facing today as Americans.
That gift of relevance is the immortal and irrefutable legacy of
Frederick Douglass.”
Above: Audience members were invited to read sections of Mr. Wilson painted a picture of the politics in play around
Frederick Douglass’ moving speech. Below: A large crowd the time of that 1852 speech. He reminded our guests that Mr.
attended this first-ever event on June 28th. Douglass knew that his audience – abolitionists of Rochester,
New York - were sympathetic to the cause. He was speaking to
a broader audience – the citizens of the United States.
“Think of the speech,” said Mr. Wilson, “as being constructed
like a symphony in three movements. In the first movement,
Douglass sets his audience at ease and honors and praises the
founding fathers for their bravery and vision. In the second
movement, Douglass describes the horrors of the slave trade -- the
“terrible reptile coiled up” and waiting to strike at the heart of the
new nation. And then, in the third movement, he encourages and
urges his audience of America to action -- we are still young, we
can change, we must have hope.”
Mr. Wilson went on to say: “We read Douglass’s speech out
loud for two reasons: to build community, and to honor the words
by reading them with witnesses. The very act of putting aside time,
committing to being together, and creating a space where everyone
is welcome elevates the experience. By coming together, we share
our humanity, and we help to create a beloved community.”
After the reading, guests were encouraged to linger over pie
and iced tea to share their thoughts on the messages heard in the
speech, and to discuss the action steps that are needed to continue
to build that beloved community.
Linden Place plans on making this an annual event each June
so stay tuned for information on our community reading in 2022.
Above: Joe Wilson Jr. (left) and Linden Place director, Susan Thanks go out to the Town of Bristol and Roger Williams
Battle, right, look on as event chair, Lynn Smith introduces the University for their Fund for Civic Activities for a grant that has
program. Below: Board member and event chair, Lynn Smith helped us present impactful programs at no cost to our guests
welcomes guests and opens the program. such as the celebration of the installation of our RI Slave history
Medallion and our community reading of Frederick Douglass’
iconic 1852 4th of July speech. We are grateful to all of our funders
and donors for their support!
5
Linden Place Mansion and Rogers Free Library Launch
Outdoor Social Justice Film Series this Summer
Screenings in the Linden Place gardens feature films focused on issues of social justice are free and open to the public
Rogers Free Library and Linden Place Mansion, both located in Bristol, RI, invite the community to the Linden Place
gardens this summer for a film series centered on the theme of race and social justice.
The six-film series – which
will focus on films exploring
issues of race and how it relates
to different parts of our society -
takes place on select Tuesdays at
sundown in the gardens (moved to
the ballroom in the case of rain).
From films on inequality to the
criminal justice system to stories
of strength and resilience, each
screening features a different and
unique perspective.
This series is part of Linden
Place’s ongoing programming
that focuses on African Americans
and the African cultures that have
contributed to United States’
history.
The schedule of stirring films
and documentaries includes: “Linden Place is excited to collaborate with Rogers Free
Library to share these exceptional films on the big screen and
Tuesday, August 17, 7:45 PM – Just Mercy (2019) Based on
the autobiographical book written by Bryan Stevenson, Just Mercy prompt conversations and discussions on issues surrounding social
tells the story of the world-renowned civil rights defense attorney justice today and throughout our nation’s history. Grab your lawn
as he works to free a wrongly condemned death row prisoner. chair or blanket and head to Linden Place this summer!” says
Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and starring Michael B. Jordan, Linden Place director, Susan Battle.
Jamie Foxx and Brie Larson. 2 hours, 17 minutes.
“Rogers Free Library is thrilled to partner with Linden Place
Tuesday, August 31, 7:30 PM – Thirteenth (2016) Combining
Museum on this film series. Intellectual curiosity, discourse and
archival footage with testimony from activists and scholars,
director Ava DuVernay’s examination of the U.S. prison system discovery are the foundation on which libraries were built. This is
looks at how the country’s history of racial inequality drives an excellent opportunity to spark a conversation in the community
the high rate of incarceration in America. This piercing, Oscar- regarding African American history and the challenges we, as a
nominated film won Best Documentary at the Emmys. For mature country, face today.” says Ryan Brennan, Executive Director of
audiences. May not be suitable for ages 17 and under. 1 hour, 40 the Rogers Free Library
minutes.
Tuesday, September 14, 7:00 PM – The Hate U Give (2018) Admission is free and open to the public. Bring your own chair
Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend and snacks or enjoy refreshments onsite from local businesses.
Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Now, facing pressure from
all sides of the community, Starr must find her voice and stand For more information, please call Linden Place at
up for what’s right. Directed by George Tillman, Jr. Based on the (401) 253-0390, email info@lindenplace.org or
book by Angie Thomas and stars Amandla Stenberg, Regina Hall visit lindenplace.org
and Russell Hornsby. 2 hours, 13 minutes.
Tuesday, September 21, 7:00 PM – Harriet (2019) The Linden Place would like to thank
extraordinary tale of Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery and BankNewport for their generous
transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes, whose contribution to help fund our
courage, ingenuity, and tenacity freed hundreds of slaves and summer events. With their support,
changed the course of history. Directed by Kasi Lemmons and our grounds will be filled with music
starring Cythia Erivo, Janelle Monae and Leslie Odom, Jr. 2 and movies this summer.
hours, 5 minutes.
6
Curator’s Corner: Tuesday Night Concerts
Linden Place’s Pier Table Ongoing in the Linden
Place Gardens
During the War of 1812, when the British Army burned the
United States Capitol, it took five years to restore the Capitol and
replace its furnishings. Thomas Constantine of New York won
the furniture contract. This pier table was made circa 1817-1820 Bring your own chair, beverages and snacks and head to
by the same Thomas Constantine. At that time George’s uncle Linden Place for live music this summer featuring local and
James DeWolf was living in Washington, DC representing Rhode
Island in the United States Senate.
regional performers and all genres of music!
Thomas Constantine was born in England in 1791, and
immigrated to New York with his parents when he was two years
old. He was apprenticed to a cabinetmaker named John Hewitt for
6 years from 1806 to 1812. But young Thomas ran away in June
of 1811, during the final year of that apprenticeship. He eventually
returned, became a journeyman, and worked for Hewitt until 1814.
He then opened his own shop on Fulton Street, two blocks away
from the more famous Duncan Phyfe.
This table was originally in the grand double parlor of James
DeWolf’s mansion, The Mount. Its mate is in the collection of
the Brooklyn Museum.
Linden Place’s
pier table, one Linden Place’s Summer Concert Series is happening! Concerts
belonging to are held on select Tuesdays this summer, July 6 – September 7, at
James DeWolf, 7pm, in the Linden Place gardens. In the case of inclement weather,
now sits in concerts will be moved to the ballroom.
the mansion’s The eclectic line-up of musicians will keep you coming
northwest back all summer! This concert series is a family-friendly event
parlor. featuring a variety of live, local-based bands and performers and a
mix of musical genres including jazz, classic rock, country, R&B,
bluegrass, and more.
Bring your own blanket, lawn chairs and picnic basket for
a relaxed, fun evening of live music. There is plenty of space on
the lawn to spread out! Tickets are $10 for Linden Place members
and $15 for non-members. Please call the Linden Place office at
Left: Linden Place’s pier table was 401-253-0390 to purchase tickets.
one of two that belonged to James
The 2021 Summer Concert series lineup is as follows:
DeWolf. One now is in the collection
of the Brooklyn Museum. Aug 3, Brian Twohey - Brian Twohey is a guitarist and
Below: This image of the interior singer who has performed throughout New England for over
of The Mount, the home belonging 15 years at venues such as Buskers in Newport, McBride’s in
to James DeWolf, clearly shows the Providence, and all places in-between. Brian incorporates both
pier table in use between the two past and present Irish tunes using an acoustic guitar, harmonica,
windows on the far wall. and the contemporary influences of Dave Matthews and Tom Petty.
Aug 10, Peter McGlynn - Peter McGlynn, who hails from
Taunton, is a solo acoustic performer
who plays a variety of genres and
styles and loves to play what the
crowd wants to hear! 20+ years
experience in the live music scene
between his band and solo shows.
Aug 24, Alexus Lee – Picture
right. This Providence-born singer
has been performing Jazz, Soul, and
popular favorites for years, much to
the delight of her weekly audiences
at CAV.
7
8
Membership Levels Friends of Linden Place
• Student & Teacher $20 • Colt Circle $100 Linden Place is an 1810 Federal mansion designed and built for
• Individual $35 • Business $250 General George DeWolf by Rhode Island architect Russell Warren.
• Family $45 • Benefactor $500 DeWolf’s grandson, Colonel Samuel Pomeroy Colt, a later owner
of the property, founded the US Rubber Company and the Industrial
Trust Company.
Membership Benefits This extraordinary estate, in the center of downtown Bristol,
Unlimited free tours of the mansion and grounds.
consists of the mansion, lovely sculpture-filled gardens, an 1850’s
Discounted or free admission to the academic and cultural
carriage barn, a 1902 ballroom, and outbuildings dating from 1750.
programs, concerts and events such as our annual
The mansion is open to the public May-October & December, Tues-
Fourth of July Parade Picnic
Sat, 10am-4pm, Sundays from 12pm-4pm. January-April & November:
15% discount on museum store purchases.
Tues-Fri, 10am-4pm, and by appointment year-round. The property
Annual subscription to the Linden Place News newsletter
is available for business and social event rentals, including weddings.
Admission to our exclusive members-only events
Discounts on special event rentals after one year of membership. Linden Place, the Place for
Weddings and Celebrations
Host your event where four Presidents
were entertained
Mansion - Gardens - Ballroom in the heart of Bristol, RI
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Bristol, RI 02809-0328
500 Hope Street
P.O. Box 328
Permit #66
Bristol, RI
PAID
U.S. Postage
NON PROFIT
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