From its earliest inhabitants (possibly as far back as 12,000 years ago) up to modern times, 55-acre Dutch Island in the center of the Narragansett Bay’s west passage, has played an interesting role. From Italian explorer Giovanni deVerrazano‘s first visit to the bay in 1524, to the arrival of the Dutch in the early 17th century, to its time as a key element in the defense of the Bay, to its status today as part of the Bay Island Park System, Varnum trustee, author and historian Brian L. Wallin takes us through the years for an illustrated look at how Dutch Island has changed with the centuries.
The program includes rarely seen visuals of ancient artifacts plus a tour of today’s island. Brian, who also serves as a narrator for the Rhode Island Fast Ferry Lighthouse Cruises, will include the story of the Dutch Island lighthouse, its colorful keepers that kept the beacon shining until the 20th century, and the light’s new lease on life.
Please RSVP by 5:30 pm Friday, April 5 to Scott Seaback at 401-413-6277 or by email at scott@ritemps.com.
MEETING DATE: Monday, April 8
TIME: 5:30 pm (social hour); 6:30 (dinner followed by presentation)
LOCATION: Varnum Memorial Armory Museum, 6 Main Street, East Greenwich, RI
DINNER MENU: Carved ham, baked scrod, scalloped potatoes, seasonal veggies, dessert
FEE: $20/person
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