Picturing Rhode Island
Discover a snapshot of early 20th century Rhode Island through the unique perspective of the State Archives 'Preston Collection.'
George Miller ice wagon (c. 1905) by UnknownRhode Island State Archives
A Collector's Spirit
This photograph and ephemera collection is named for Howard W. Preston, a man with a wide range of interests and passion for Rhode Island history.
Street Scene in East Greenwich (c. 1920-1930) by Rhode Island. Department of StateRhode Island State Archives
Street Scene in East Greenwich
The Town of East Greenwich is located in the center of Rhode Island along the west shore of Narragansett Bay.
Graveyard at the Commons in Little Compton (c. 1920-1930) by Rhode Island. Department of StateRhode Island State Archives
Graveyard at the Commons
This historic graveyard in Little Compton, RI saw its first burial in 1690 and is located next to the town Congregational Church.
Graveyard at the Commons
This headstone, dated 1776, reads, "In memory of Elizabeth, who would have been Mrs. Simeon Palmer, who died August 14, 1776 in the 64th year of her age"
Wickford Village (c. 1920-1930) by Rhode Island. Department of StateRhode Island State Archives
Developing Wickford
The village grew slowly at first and was the subject of much real estate speculation, with as many as 20 homes constructed by the time of the Revolution, many of which still exist. Today, Wickford Village remains a charming and historical destination.
Sunday outing (c. 1905) by UnknownRhode Island State Archives
A Sunday Outing
A unique gem in the State Archives collection, this photograph is an excellent example of Rhode Island scenery, period dress, and leisure activities at the turn of the 20th century.
Queen's Fort in North Kingstown (1921) by Rhode Island. Department of StateRhode Island State Archives
Queens Fort, North Kingstown/Exeter
Queen's Fort, located near Stony Road, holds a special place in history. Built on a hill formed by glacial deposits, it's a testament to the area's unique geological formations and the strategic importance of its location to the Narragansett Indian Tribe during King Philip's War. Learn more.
A Woman and Her Dog, c. 1920-1930
The Preston Collection captured many moments of everyday life in Rhode Island during the 1920s-1930s. The collection offers a vast array of images that provide a unique lens into Rhode Island's past.
Everyday Life in Rhode Island
Taken around 1905, this snapshot shows a man and child enjoying a simple bike ride, highlighting one of the lighter, leisurely moments captured by Preston's keen eye.
Scituate Dam, c.1920-1930
The Scituate Reservoir dam stands as a reminder of the profound impact of human development on the environment. It provided essential drinking water for Providence but also led to the destruction of several villages in Scituate, shaping the town's history and landscape.
Westminster and Eddy Streets in Providence, RI (1866) by Rhode Island. Department of StateRhode Island State Archives
Corner of Westminster Street
Howard Preston was one of countless people who participated in the preservation of our state's history. See his photographs, and over 1 million historic records of all types, online today.
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