In July 1780, thousands of French troops landed in Newport beginning an occupation that lasted for nearly a year. The presence of this new ally represented a turning point in the American Revolution and the start of the Franco-American Alliance. While French troops played a vital role in American victory at Yorktown in 1781, Newport citizens were far from welcoming upon their arrival. Saturday July 12, 2025, the Newport Historical Society will showcase aspects of this pivotal point in American history during the French in Newport living history weekend, a free one-day event about life in the summer of 1780.

The French in Newport Event will feature living historians portraying recognizable figures such as George and Martha Washington, the Marquis de Lafayette and the Marquis de Chastellux along with the head of the French army, comte de Rochambeau. Dozens of costumed living historians representing both civilians and French soldiers will discuss the challenges of establishing this new alliance.

Programming will be at Washington Square, Newport, RI

Lauren Muney will be cutting silhouettes for visitors, 11-4pm. More information TBA.