Day One in Providence and Newport, Rhode Island

Touro Synagogue

The Touro Synagogue was our first stop in Rhode Island. This synagogue was the first place of Jewish worship in the United States and was founded in 1759. At that time in Rhode Island’s history, there was not just freedom of worship, but tolerance of different religions. This meant that not only could they worship as Jews, but no one would bother them, or make fun of them because they were Jewish. Many people settled in Rhode Island for that very reason.
All the churches in Newport are equally placed in a semi-circle. This arrangement of the worship buildings keeps one church from being the center of the town and giving the idea that it is more important than the others. All were equal. There are no crosses, Stars of David, or any other religious symbols on the outside of the churches and synagogues. Again, this is to make sure that all of the religions are equal.  
At one time, the synagogue was used as a hospital, a meeting place, and a stop on the Underground Railroad.
At the front of the synagogue, there is a painting which includes three crowns. It is said that this is the reason that the British Regulars didn’t burn the building down during the American Revolution.

Trinity Church

 Our next stop was at Trinity Church which is now an Episcopal church. During the American Revolution it was an Anglican Church and was known as the Kings Church.  
 The church has five beautiful stained glass windows on one side of the church, two of which were designed and built by Tiffany. (Google Tiffany and find out what why he is famous!) After the stained glass windows were installed, the members of the church realized that there was no longer had a cross breeze to cool the church during the summers, so they decided not to put any more stained glass in the church.  

 The pulpit in the church is at the front of the center aisle. It is three levels high and free standing. Above the pulpit is what is called a sounding board. It is also the shape of a wine glass. It was never moved to the side like in most churches. Trinity Church also contains an organ that is the second oldest in the colonies and was a thank you gift.  

Today's Trivia Question:

 When we first entered Newport, we went by a baseball park called Cardine Field. Cardine Field is place where three famous baseball players got their start. Can you name them?