Newport's Pirate History

Newport, Rhode Island, is renowned for its picturesque coastal charm and rich maritime history. However, beneath its idyllic façade lies a turbulent past intertwined with piracy during the pre-colonial era. From the 17th to the early 18th century, Newport served as a bustling hub for trade and shipping, attracting not only merchants but also infamous pirates seeking plunder and adventure along the Atlantic seaboard.

During this time, piracy was rampant in the waters off Newport, fueled by the lucrative trade routes and the vulnerability of merchant vessels. The region's labyrinthine coastline, dotted with numerous coves and hidden harbors, provided ideal hideouts for pirates to launch raids and evade capture by colonial authorities.

One notorious incident that left an indelible mark on Newport's pirate history was the series of hangings at Gravelly Point. In 1723, authorities in Newport apprehended a group of pirates who had been pirating the high seas for months. These pirates, known for their ruthless tactics and audacious raids, were swiftly brought to justice. Gravelly Point, a stretch of land at the end of long Wharf overlooking the shimmering waters of Narragansett Bay, became the site of their grim demise. The hangings served as a stark warning to would-be pirates, showcasing the unwavering resolve of colonial officials to maintain law and order in Newport's waters. These 23 men were part of one of the largest mass executions in American history. Their bodies were buried in a mass grave at the north end of Goat Island between the high and low tide watermarks, under the belief that their that their souls would never rest.

Another notorious locale associated with Newport's pirate history is Blood Alley, a narrow thoroughfare nestled within the heart of the historic district. Legend has it that Blood Alley earned its ominous moniker due to the frequent brawls and skirmishes that erupted between rival pirate factions and local townsfolk. The cobblestone streets once echoed with the sounds of clashing swords and pistol shots as pirates vied for dominance in Newport's bustling underworld.

Amidst this backdrop of lawlessness and intrigue, the White Horse Tavern stood as a witness to Newport's seafaring saga. Established in 1673, by then pirate William Mayes Sr, the White Horse Tavern is one of America's oldest operating taverns and has welcomed a diverse cast of characters throughout its storied history, including sailors, merchants, and yes, even pirates. It is said that the tavern's dimly lit interior provided a haven for pirates seeking respite from their perilous exploits at sea. Tales of hidden treasures and clandestine meetings abound within the tavern's timeworn walls, adding to its mystique as a bastion of Newport's pirate lore.

Despite the efforts of colonial authorities to suppress piracy, the allure of adventure and riches continued to attract swashbucklers to Newport's shores. The legacy of piracy in pre-colonial Newport endures as a reminder of the city's turbulent past and its integral role in the maritime history of the United States. Today, visitors can explore the city's pirate heritage through guided tours, museum exhibits, and historic landmarks, offering a glimpse into a bygone era when Newport was a haven for rogues and buccaneers on the high seas.