History Bytes: Orphaned Gravestones

April 23, 2014

Many Newport gravestones have been lost to development, theft and vandalism. Stones have been found as far away as Long Island for uses such as shoreline erosion control, patio steps and cesspool covers. Other stones were rescued from destruction by well-intentioned citizens including the three Newport gravestones next to NHS headquarters on Touro Street:

GOVERNORS JOHN AND SAMUEL CRANSTON tablet stone in two sections 1727. Replaced by a full size reproduction at the Common Burying Ground 2003.

ELDER WILLIAM BLISS gravestone 1808. Rescued from Bliss graveyard at Green End Avenue, Middletown, lost to development. William Bliss was the pastor of the Seventh Day Baptist Meeting House.

SAMUEL AND WAITE CARR tablet stone 1739. Rescued from Goat Island Torpedo Station development. Father and daughter died of the small pox epidemic on the same day.