The Stephen Hopkins House, 1707

About

The home of Declaration of Independence signer Stephen Hopkins, his family and their slaves for 4 decades, on Benefit Street's "Mile of History." Built in 1707 and enlarged in 1743, now furnished with period antiques and Hopkins heirlooms. Hopkins was elected Governor of Rhode Island ten times, served in the General Assembly, presided as Chief Justice over the Gaspee Affair, and represented the colony at both Continental Congresses.

Guided tours feature the elegant front rooms - the bedchambers, one where George Washington slept, Hopkins' study with a dramatic secretary desk, the family's parlor - and those in the back - utilitarian kitchen, borning room and slaves' chamber.

In our Gallery - a fine collection of 18th century samplers.

Located a block from Brown University, the RISD Museum and Water Fire.

National Historic Landmark

Directions

From North/South on I95, take exit 22A onto Memorial Blvd. Continue to 5th set of lights, where you turn LEFT onto College Street. Proceed through lights at South Main & up the hill to stop sign at Benefit Street. Turn RIGHT onto Benefit Street, past the RISD Museum and Providence Athenaeum. The museum is on the corner of Benefit & Hopkins, just before George Street. From West on I195, take exit 2 ramp down to lights at Point Street. Turn RIGHT, then immediately at the next lights turn LEFT onto Benefit Street. Proceed 1/4 mile, straight through stop sign at Power Street past the John Brown House and the Unitarian Church. The museum is on the left, at the foot of George Street.