The Agenda

The Revolutionary Importance of the Tavern

Contrary to popular history, the first major act of the Revolutionary War was not a Tea Party in Boston. On June 9, 1772, shattering voices and the burning of a British ship hailed the first overt act of the American Revolutionary War — right here in Rhode Island.

H.R.M. Gaspee tattoo on the arm of Bob Goudie, by Federal Hill Tattoo.

As any other bar in Providence today might be crowded on a week-night, in June of 1772 Sabin's tavern at Fenner's Wharf, near what is now South Main and Planet Streets, was packed. But two hundred thirty years ago, talk and gossip included revolution and world-change.

• Art and culture are everything we do and everywhere we are.
• Art and culture are inalienable human rights essential to our survival.