John Bliss House

The John Bliss House is a stone residence in Newport featuring a prominent stone chimney at one end and displaying complete 17th-century residential design. The original construction with stone walls and period details remains largely intact.

Built in 1679 by Quaker Elder John Bliss on land from his father-in-law, Rhode Island's first governor, the house has endured through the centuries. Its original stone structure was maintained through careful preservation over generations.

The building shows construction methods that early colonists favored, particularly those brought by Quaker settlers to Rhode Island. The stone walls and overall structure reflect the practical skills and needs that shaped their settlements.

The house sits on Wilbur Avenue near Bliss Road and remains privately owned, so it can be viewed from the street. Visitors should remember this is a private residence and approach respectfully from public areas.

The house is one of only two remaining stone-end homes from this early colonial period still standing in Newport. This rarity makes it valuable evidence of construction methods that otherwise vanished from the region.

Inception: 1679

Made from material: stone

GPS coordinates: 41.49974,-71.30204

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:08