Voices of Resilience: Hidden History of Providence Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness level recommended, as the tour involves walking for an extended period on urban terrain.
Overview
Uncover Providence’s hidden past with an eye-opening walking tour that highlights stories of resilience and community. Join us for a cultural journey through Providence’s streets and discover its inspiring history like never before.
Voices of Resilience: Hidden History of Providence Tour
120 Minutes • All ages welcome • Learn the social history of Providence!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Explore Providence's rich tapestry of social justice movements and the inspiring stories of its unsung heroes in this immersive 120-minute tour. Discover the contributions of Indigenous peoples, African Americans, and women, and learn how their resilience shaped the city's identity through triumphs and struggles against adversity.
Learn about Providence's social justice movements and unsung heroes!
Duration
120 Minutes
About
From pivotal social justice movements to the personal narratives of unsung heroes, Voices of Resilience offers a deeper understanding of Providence’s identity and legacy of courage, resistance, and triumph. The tour highlights the lives and contributions of Providence's Indigenous peoples, African Americans, immigrants, women, and other historically underrepresented groups who helped shape the city. We'll take a closer look at how Rhode Island's tremendous profit on the international slave trade powered the Industrial Revolution, how the state barely overcame revolution in defiance of rebellious suffragists, all the way through how the state fought but failed to prevent the first Gay Pride parade from taking place in Providence in 1976.
Providence has been home to diverse, courageous, and resilient people who were able to achieve incredible feats despite the deck being stacked against them in every way. Learn about Edward Bannister, a 19th-century Black barber who overcame prejudice to become a painter of national acclaim; Princess Red Wing, a passionate educator, storyteller, and Narragansett and Pokanoket activist; Maritcha Lyons, who testified at the age of 16 in favor of Rhode Island school desegregation; and the 1902 labor strike that stopped Rhode Island's urban core in its tracks.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
This tour covers a significant distance through city streets, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Bring water and a hat
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during the outdoor walk, especially in summer and fall.
Check the weather forecast
Be prepared for unexpected weather conditions by reviewing the forecast before your tour day.
Arrive early to explore nearby sites
Arriving a few minutes early allows you to enjoy surrounding attractions and settle in.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Peregrine falcons
- Urban foxes
History
Providence played a pivotal role in Rhode Island’s history as a hub for religious freedom and resilience amid colonial challenges, with stories of perseverance weaving through its streets.
Conservation
The city supports local initiatives to preserve historic landmarks and promote sustainable tourism, ensuring Providence’s past remains vibrant for future generations.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes are vital for a comfortable and enjoyable walking experience.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Shield yourself from sunlight during outdoor segments of the tour.
summer|spring specific
Water bottle
Hydrate throughout the walk to stay energized and comfortable.
Camera or smartphone with good camera
Capture the historic sights and scenic streets along your journey.