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A behind-the-scenes tour of Alfred Drown

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Steeped in historic brilliance, Barrington remains one of Rhode Island’s gems in terms of architectural culture. On September 15, the Barrington Preservation Society welcomes the public to Destination Drownville, a tour featuring nine homes and two churches located in the Alfred Drown neighborhood. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the neighborhood blends marsh and water views with the authentic charm of the mid-1850s. Homes included in the tour range from handsome Victorians to cozy bungalows, all of which have undergone transformations over the years. 

Stop in the romantic Olney and Phoebe Arnold Cottage, established in 1872. It combines two small Victorian summer houses and overlooks Narragansett Bay. Its interesting history includes time used for “hospital purposes” by St. Joseph’s Hospital in the early 1900s. Since 2000, the owners have taken a hands-on renovation approach that you’ll have to see for yourself. Don’t miss the George Anderton House, built in 1907. Built by the wholesale jeweler and textile manufacturer of the same name, the home features unusual use of concrete, painted tin ceilings, a magnificent oak staircase and stained glass windows. Like the Arnold cottage, it has incredible views of the marsh and Allin’s Cove. 

A trolley will connect the event registration area Barrington Christian Academy to the tour route. Tickets are $25 in advance, available by sending a check by September 7 to the Barrington Preservation Society, or $30 on the day of the tour. Tickets can be picked up at the academy on the day of the tour.

Drownville, Barrington, Phoebe Arnold Cottage, George Anderton House, Arnold Cottage, The Bay,

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