New LEDs Bathe Historic and Mysterious Newport Tower in a Whole New Light

These days, the mysterious and profoundly important historic tower in Newport’s Touro Park is looking even more impressive at night.

The former large, energy-hungry lights pointed at the stone tower of uncertain origin dated back to the 1970s. Today, energy-efficient, low-profile LEDs bathe the stones in a new clean and crisp light.

The new lights are joined by a new fence, which also had seen better days. Things are looking brighter thanks to a group of Newporters who recently became dismayed by the wear and tear and took it upon themselves to lead a citywide effort to invest in the important structure.

The Board of Directors of the Historic Hill Association stepped forward to start taking action, starting with creating a Stone Tower Restoration Committee.

The members of the committee -- Pamela Giroux, Jean Gorham, Federico Santi and Peter Chabot, coordinated with the city and undertook the necessary study to replace the lights.

“The Historic Hill Association was glad to accept this challenge that makes a difference for residents and visiting tourists,” said Federico Santi, member of the Historic Hill Association.

A fundraising effort collected more than $45,000 from generous Newport residents. The city’s Public Services Department coordinated the restoration work and undertook a host of tasks to get the job done, including upgrading the park’s electrical service. The in-house labor cut down on project costs and now, the entire Newport community can get a better look at a valuable city landmark.

“We could not have done this without the help of our neighbors and friends,” said Scott Wheeler, Buildings & Grounds Supervisor. “It is evident the community cares about the Tower and recognizes its historic value to Newport.”

The public is invited to visit Touro Park at night to appreciate the tower. For more information, visit: http://historichillassociation.com/

Photo by Jim Egan, used with permission.