The Noreen Stonor Drexel Cultural and Historic Preservation Program
Newport Historic Spring Archaeological Dig
Salve Regina alumni, Lauren McKinnin ‘21, and Mary Persico ‘21, and student, Grace Parenti ‘22, are participating in an all-female archaeological dig at the historic spring site in the city of Newport. The archaeological dig has been run by Dr. Alexandra Uhl, adjunct professor at Salve Regina, in partnership with the Historic Newport Spring Project, which is run by the Newport Historic Spring Leadership Committee and the Church Community Housing Corporation. The goal is to continue to investigate and unearth the site around the spring, which has a long history within the region. The city of Newport was founded in 1639, and records from that time indicate that the town would be built up around the spring. After considerable fundraising, the Church Community Housing Corporation purchased the land for the Historic Newport Spring Project, and plans are to convert the spring site into a park that celebrates Newport historical legacy.
