The Towers (Narragansett, Rhode Island) facts for kids
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The Towers
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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 Location in Rhode Island
Location in the United States
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| Location | 35 Ocean Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island |
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| Built | 1883 |
| Architect | McKim, Mead, and White |
| Part of | Towers Historic District (ID82000021) |
| NRHP reference No. | 69000001 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 25, 1969 |
| Designated CP | August 18, 1982 |
The Towers is a famous old building in Narragansett, Rhode Island. It's the only part left of a huge building called the Narragansett Pier Casino. This casino was built way back in the 1880s. The Towers were added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 25, 1969.
Contents
A Look Back: The Casino's Story (1883-1900)
Imagine a super popular hangout spot from the late 1800s! That's what the Narragansett Pier Casino was. It was the main place for fun and social events in Narragansett. This casino was as famous as the one in Newport. Rich and important people loved to visit it. But sadly, it burned down completely in 1900.
Building a Grand Place
The Narragansett Pier Casino was built between 1883 and 1886. It was a great example of Victorian Shingle style architecture. This style was a type of Queen Anne style architecture in the United States. Famous architects named McKim, Mead, and White designed it.
Fun and Games at the Casino
The Casino offered many fun activities. You could go boating, play tennis, billiards, or bowling. There were also places for cards and shooting. The building had restaurants, stores, and reading rooms. It even had a theater, a bandstand, and a ballroom. Plus, it was right next to a beautiful beach!
The Great Fire of 1900
The Narragansett Pier Casino was very popular during the Gilded Age. This was a time of great wealth and growth in America. But on September 12, 1900, a big fire started. It began in the nearby Rockingham Hotel. The flames quickly spread to the Casino. Most of the Casino was destroyed. Only the strong granite walls of The Towers were left standing.
After the Fire: A New Discovery
More recently, Hurricane Sandy hit the area. The hurricane uncovered something amazing. It revealed the old foundation of the casino. Part of the old boardwalk was also found. These had been buried under the sand for many years.
The Towers Today
The Narragansett Towers have survived a lot. They have been through fires, big storms called nor'easters, and hurricanes. They are the only part left of the original Narragansett Pier Casino.
A Famous Landmark
Today, The Towers are one of the most recognized landmarks in Narragansett. They are a popular place for many events. People hold weddings, dances, and dinners there. You can also see plays and fashion shows.
Perfect Location
The Towers are right next to Narragansett town beach. This makes them a great spot for social gatherings. It's a beautiful place to visit and enjoy the history.
Images for kids
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Narragansett towers attached to the casino, around 1885
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Narragansett Casino ruins and lifeguard station, around 1905 after the fire
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