Old State House, Georgian courthouse in College Hill, Providence, United States
Description
The Old State House is a Georgian courthouse in Providence that stands as an important historical landmark in the downtown area. The two-story brick structure features a tower with a wooden cupola and brownstone details framing the windows, characteristic of mid-18th-century design.
History
The Rhode Island General Assembly declared independence from British rule in this building in 1776, making it the first colony to take this step. This event marked a turning point in the American struggle for freedom.
Culture
This building served as the political center of Rhode Island, where people gathered to make decisions that shaped the colony's future. The rooms still reflect the formal setting where representatives met to discuss and vote on matters affecting their community.
Practical
Visitors can explore the building and learn about its architecture and history through regular guided tours offered at the site. The location is central to Providence and easy to reach on foot while walking around the downtown area.
Did you know?
Few visitors realize this building is one of only three remaining colonial-era state houses still standing in the United States, and Rhode Island is home to two others. This rare collection makes the region an exceptional place for exploring early American architecture.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Providence).
Providence sits in the northeastern United States and presents itself as a city that has developed over several centuries. The area around Benefit Street preserves colonial wooden houses with narrow windows and steep roofs. The Rhode Island State House stands on a hill with its white marble cladding...
Rhode Island School of Design Museum
301 m
Providence Athenaeum
430 m
Prospect Terrace Park
223 m
Roger Williams National Memorial
293 m
Fleur-de-lys Studios
126 m
Market House
378 m
Providence County Courthouse
399 m
Market Square
327 m
Rhode Island Hospital Trust Building
356 m
Federal Building
370 m
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island Headquarters
322 m
RISD Museum
323 m
Waterplace
334 m
State Arsenal
76 m
Dr. George W. Carr House
257 m
Corliss-Brackett House
397 m
Woods-Gerry House
303 m
Brick Schoolhouse
32 m
Elizabeth Building
134 m
Hope Block and Cheapside
280 m
La Gondola Providence, Inc.
222 m
The Providence Athenaeum
428 m
One Financial Plaza
404 m
One Citizens Plaza
199 m
Roger Williams National Memorial Visitor Center
293 m
H. P. Lovecraft House
388 m
John O. Pastore Federal Building
330 m
RISD Design Center
278 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes