Prescott Farm
Glimpse early New England at Prescott Farm. Visit the historic 1812 windmill, experience Revolutionary War history in the guardhouse, and feed ducks and geese at the pond. Learn about 18th-century uses for plants grown in kitchen and herb gardens. Feel history come alive in this charming country setting. The grounds are always open to the public and include historic buildings, two gardens, a pond, and several walking trails.
On the north side of the property are the Nichols-Overing House (c.1730), original to the site, Potter House (c.1790), the Almy-Cory House (c.1800), and Goudy Cottage (c.1960). All are restored and rented to tenant stewards. This area is not normally available for public access. The public museum site, on the south side of the creek, offers a glimpse of early rural Aquidneck Island through its buildings and landscape.
Featured Buildings
The Robert Sherman Windmill
The Robert Sherman Windmill, built in 1812 stands as a reminder of Aquidneck Island’s agricultural history. Learn how windmills operate and more about its fascinating history.
The Guard House
The Guard House (mid-1700s) is where General Prescott may have quartered his bodyguards during the Revolutionary War. Learn more about this structure and its connection to the Patriots who captured Prescott in 1777 and won the praise of George Washington.
Hicks House
The Hicks House, now called The Country Store (c.1715) once belonged to the Bristol ferryman and his family. It now operates as the Prescott Farm visitor center and store where you can purchase books, toys, garden-related home accents, johnny cake mix, and duck feed. Learn more!
Sweet-Anthony House
The Sweet-Anthony House (c. 1730) is an excellent example of an 18th century, middle-class farmer’s house. It was rescued from demolition as suburban sprawl overtook West Main Road. It is currently used for intern housing and educational programs.
Schedule and Ticketing Information
2008 Schedule
- June 1–September 31
-
Tuesday–Saturday
10:00 am–4:00 pm
Property Information
2009 West Main Road
Middletown, RI
ph (401) 847-6230
View a map, or for complete directions visit the Directions page.
Tickets for Guided Building Tours
- Adults: $4.00
- Children under 12: Free
Grounds
The grounds are free and open to the public. See our group tours information page or email lisa@newportrestoration.org to book a group.
How did Prescott Farm get its Name?
The farm is the site of a significant event in the American Revolution. General Prescott, commander of the 4,000-strong British occupying force on Aquidneck Island, took the house owned by Loyalist John Overing as his rural headquarters. Prescott was not well liked, being characterized as dictatorial and arrogant. He had taken the Bannister House in Newport as his town headquarters, but unfortunately for him on July 10, 1777 he chose to be in the country. American Colonel William Barton, under cover of darkness, led a party of 30 or more men in longboats on a circuitous route from Tiverton to the point where the farm brook empties into the bay. The party somehow avoided guards during their stealthy trek to Overing House, surprised General Prescott, and absconded with him and his aide. As they retraced their path to the longboats, no shot was fired nor alarm given until they were well away. Thus the rebel force accomplished one of the more daring and successful raids of the Revolution. As an expression of patriot pride, the farm has been dubbed Prescott Farm since at least the mid-1800s.
