Rhode Island Slave History Medallions (RISHM) was pleased to host an event for The Historic Hill Association last week at the private home of Michelle & Bob Drum. RISHM Founder & Executive Director Charles Roberts welcomed New York-based figurative sculptor, Vinnie Bagwell, as the guest of honor. Bagwell unveiled two art renderings of the planned life-size sculpture of 19th century, Newport-based entrepreneur, abolitionist and activist George T. Downing.
Plans are underway to erect this first-ever person of color monument in Newport, honoring Mr. Downing, in Touro Park once funding can be secured.
To donate, visit www.rishm.org/donate.
Rhode Island Slave History Medallions invites the community to a special Juneteenth Semiquincentennial Living History Celebration at Fort Adams State Park in Newport.
Held on the parade grounds inside the fort, this family-friendly event will commemorate Juneteenth while also honoring the anniversary of the Revolutionary War and the history of the Battle of Rhode Island.Â
We invite all visitors to learn more about RISHM’s events and accomplishments in 2025 and support our Annual Campaign, from Giving Tuesday (Dec. 2, 2025) through 401 Gives Day (April 1, 2026).
RISHM relies on the generous support of private donations to continue the underrepresented but important work of marking the landscape of where slave history happened in Rhode Island.
