05/21/2026
RI Slave History Medallions unveiled a maquette of 19th-century Black entrepreneur and abolitionist George T. Downing on April 11. It was the first look at a sculpture that aims to honor one of Newport’s most influential and overlooked historical figures. A six-foot version of the statue, created by acclaimed sculptor Vinnie Bagwell, will be installed in Touro Park.
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Rep.Gabe Amo noted the remarkable level of engagement in the Newport community. “There is so much passion here, and the barrier-breaking nature of this project is not lost on me,” Amo said. He shared his hope that future schoolchildren will one day look up at the statue and be inspired to dig deeper into the exploration of history and shine a light on things that didn’t go well as we push forward to make a better world.
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The evening’s featured speaker, Robb Dimmick, underscored that Black history is not a separate history but American history, with Newport being ground zero with figures such as Cuffe Stevens and Newport Gardner. He described Downing as both a high profile, exceptional success in business and a tireless civil rights advocate. “He had an inexhaustible energy,” enthused Dimmick.
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Downing’s accomplishments were wide-ranging. In addition to opening a popular oyster house and later a resort, he fought against racial, educational, and marital injustices and was an agent of the Underground Railroad. He influenced legislation when he was managing the dining room for the House of Reps in D.C. “He broke molds and set standards,” Dimmick said, adding that Downing “pushed the boundaries of race, class, and possibilities.”
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Roberts recognized early supporters like Lisette Prince, Heritage Harbor Foundation, and friends who have helped launch what will be a $250,000 initiative. The project aims to mark Newport’s landscape with the first statue of a person of color.
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Bagwell shared that her work is rooted in extensive research and community collaboration, focusing on individuals whose lives reflect courage, cultural significance, and transformation. She encouraged attendees to look closely at the back of the sculpture where a story will be woven into the design.
