about the island
THE ISLAND
Rose Island is about 18 acres in size and situated in the Narragansett Bay just south of the Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge. It consists of a historic lighthouse, the Fort Hamilton Barracks, and a wildlife refuge. It is managed by the Rose Island Lighthouse & Fort Hamilton Trust, a 501c3 non-profit in Newport, Rhode Island since 1984. Our mission is to preserve the historic and environmental integrity of Rose Island and maintain its historic properties as open for public access and education.
THE LIGHTHOUSE
The Rose Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse in Newport, RI that shone its light for 100 years over Narragansett Bay as a sentry for incoming ships. After being taken out of service by the federal government in 1970, the community came together to restore it in the 1980s. The light was re-lit in 1993.
wildlife refuge
The Rose Island wildlife refuge is home to many species of birds, trees, shrubs and other wildlife. It is an important nesting habitat for many wading shorebirds. It is closed to public access annually during bird nesting season from March 1 - August 14.
fort hamilton
The Fort Hamilton Barracks is an important historic structure on Rose Island. Its story includes many layers of history dating back to the American Revolution, and an intensive military use during World Wars I and 2 as part of the Newport Naval Torpedo Station.