Hunter House, Newport

The Hunter House stands as a captivating piece of American colonial history. This historic house, situated near the northern end of the Newport Historic District, is steeped in rich heritage and architectural splendor.

The story of Hunter House begins in 1748 when the original portion of the house was constructed for Colonial Deputy Governor Jonathan Nichols Jr. This elegant, 2½-story house exudes the character of the era with a distinctive balustraded gambrel roof and heavy stud construction. It serves as a testament to the architectural style of the time.

In 1756, the property changed hands, coming into the possession of Colonel Joseph Wanton Jr., a prominent deputy governor of the colony and a merchant. Under his ownership, Hunter House underwent a significant transformation. Wanton expanded the house by adding a south wing and an additional chimney. This expansion turned the residence into a formal Georgian mansion, complete with a spacious central hall. The architecture and design were a reflection of the colonial grandeur that characterized the era. Subsequently, Senator and Ambassador William Hunter acquired the house, further enhancing its Georgian colonial elegance.

The significance of Hunter House was not lost to the annals of history. In 1945, a group of preservation-minded individuals recognized the importance of safeguarding this architectural gem and preventing its potential demolition. This led to the formation of the Preservation Society of Newport County, a guardian of Newport's historic treasures. As a result, Hunter House was designated a National Historic Landmark on November 24, 1968.

Today, Hunter House is open to limited public tours, offering a captivating glimpse into colonial America's bygone elegance. The house is adorned with period furnishings by renowned craftsmen Townsend and Goddard. The collection also includes paintings, one of which is by the famous Gilbert Stuart, as well as a meticulously restored 18th-century garden.