Aquidneck Island Living July Meet The Callahan Family

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Museum center facing East / Photo by Adam Lenio
The Sailing Museum: Celebrating
a Timeless Sport and Inspiring All
BY HEATHER RUHSAM, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE SAILING MUSEUM
As you drive over the Pell Bridge during
the summer months, it becomes
abundantly clear that Newport is a sailing
town. From the bustling berths and moorings
to the lively fleets of dinghies and remotecontrol
boats, this City-by-the-Sea is an
international sailing destination. Harnessing
the passion for wind and water, The Sailing
Museum offers a unique and captivating
experience for sailors and non-sailors alike.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Newport
stands the historic Armory, a castle-like
building that exudes the air of a fortress.
Originally constructed in 1894 for the Rhode
Island Militia and later the National Guard, it
gained prominence during the 50s, 60s, 70s,
and 80s as the Press Office for the America's
Cup during the 12 Metre Era, when sailors
and spectators flocked to Newport to catch
a glimpse of the silver trophy and the boats
that raced to capture its glory. Now, this
iconic space that celebrates the National
Sailing Hall of Fame and America’s Cup Hall
of Fame is known as The Sailing Museum.
Thanks to the support of generous donors
from across the country, the historic Armory
has undergone significant renovations.
Under the expert management of in-kind
supporter Kirby Perkins Construction, the
systems throughout the museum have been
modernized to create a world-class facility.
Special care has been taken to restore the
original interior wood- and metalwork,
harkening back to an age of enduring
craftsmanship. With the Newport Maritime
Center in the space below, the public-private
partnership between the City of Newport
and The Sailing Museum aligns toward public
use and enjoyment of this historic property,
the waterfront, and maritime activities.
At the heart of The Sailing Museum lies its
mission to honor the heritage of sailing and
introduce new audiences to the "sport for
a lifetime." The museum features galleries
celebrating the members of the National
Sailing Hall of Fame and the America's
Cup Hall of Fame. As visitors embark on
their personalized journey, they explore
sailing through interactive exhibits,
Friendly competition on the grinders!
immersing themselves in the rich narratives
and resources that can ignite their own
sailing adventures, whether here in the
Ocean State or anywhere else in the US.
For sailors, the museum and Halls of Fame
serve as a testament to their passion
and devotion to the sport. It honors their
heroes, educates them on the principles
of sailing, and offers a platform to test
their skills and knowledge. The museum
fosters a sense of community and pride,
connecting sailors to the broader history
and culture of their beloved sport.
The appeal of The Sailing Museum
extends beyond the sailing community.
Non-sailors will find The Sailing Museum
to be a captivating experience. It offers
a gateway into the world of sailing,
revealing the universal elements that
transcend the sport itself – the power
of wind, the beauty of water, the mental
acuity required, the physical endurance
demanded, the essence of teamwork, and
the thrill of competition. These qualities are
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