R.I. landmark is historically significant

Rhode Islanders are fortunate to have the Roger Williams National Memorial as our own entry in the lineup. Diminutive in size at less than five acres (the second smallest unit in the system), the memorial is none the less afforded the same degree of importance under the law as the big parks, and uniquely tells the story of our nation in its own way. Don’t be fooled by the postage stamp size: a lot of history happened here. The events and thought memorialized here served as the impetus for a core doctrine of our great country: the separation of church and state. That is big, folks.
  Banished and fleeing from Massachusetts Bay Colony in the bitter winter of 1636, English minister Roger Williams and several of his followers trekked through 70 miles of cold and snowy wilderness, establishing a settlement on the site of a fresh water spring where the national park is now situated. Establishing respectful relations with the local Native Americans, Williams named the settlement Providence, in thanks for God’s providence in leading him to the location. The basic tenet of the new settlement and, later chartered colony, was the freedom of choosing one’s own spiritual path, irrespective of civil influences. It quickly became a haven for “persons distressed of conscience,” and the colony grew and thrived.
  A five- minute video in the Visitor Center at 282 North Main St. provides excellent background about the site, and exhibits throughout the center further interpret the history of the area and its importance in our nation’s development. The Park Service has always prided itself on employing thousands of professionals intent on studying, conserving and teaching about national parks, and Rhode Islanders are lucky to have several such park rangers stationed at the memorial. A conversation with any one of them is sure to be inspiring, educational and personally relevant, making it a highlight of your visit.
  A walk through the paved 4.5-acre park is delightful in all seasons and enhanced by several waysides that further interpret the setting. Ample benches and picnic tables are suitable for enjoying a relaxing lunch and provide opportunities for quiet reflection and thought. Free public programs are offered throughout the summer with expanded programming held on WaterFire nights. For the latest information, visit http://www-nps.gov/rowi/index.htm, or call (401) 521-7266.
  The Visitor Center and park are handicapped accessible. Visitor Center hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the summer and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Columbus Day through Memorial Day. There is no admission charge; and there is ample two-hour parking. There is a small but intelligently stocked gift shop on the premises. 
  Enjoy your visit to the memorial, a part of the national park system, the collective institution which has often been called “America’s best idea.”  We are lucky, indeed, to have one so close to home.
  Next month, my column will feature ocean front property in South County that each of you owns: the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Ninigret Nation-al Wildlife Refuge and its wonderful Kettle Pond Visitor Center. 
  Till then, I’ll see you on the Rhode.
 
Mark Sweberg is a member of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program board of directors. Contact him at mark.sweberg@gmail.com.