Rhode Island Independence Day

Rhode Island Independence Day is celebrated on May 4. This state holiday commemorates the day in 1776 when the colony officially renounced its allegiance to the British Crown. It marks a moment of local pride and serves as a reminder of the state’s early role in the American Revolution. ¹

See also: National Rhode Island Day

History of Rhode Island Independence Day

The holiday traces back to May 4, 1776, when the Rhode Island General Assembly met at the Old State House on Benefit Street in Providence. During this session, lawmakers passed the Act of Renunciation, which effectively repealed a previous act of allegiance to King George III. This legislative move made Rhode Island the first of the thirteen colonies to formally sever its political ties with Great Britain, occurring exactly two months before the national Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia.

Colonel Jonathan Arnold drafted the resolution, which stripped the King’s name from all official state documents and legal processes. The act replaced references to the monarch with “The Governor and Company of the English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.” While some historians debate whether this was a full declaration of sovereign independence or a tactical legal maneuver, the citizens of the time widely celebrated it as a complete break from British authority. The state eventually ratified the United States Constitution in 1790, being the last of the original colonies to do so.

Why is Rhode Island Independence Day important?

This day highlights the spirit of independence and dissent that has characterized Rhode Island since its founding by Roger Williams. By acting before any other colony, Rhode Island set a precedent for self-governance and the rejection of imperial rule. The holiday honors the courage of the General Assembly members who risked being charged with treason to assert the rights of their constituents.

The observance reinforces the state’s unique identity as a place for the “otherwise minded” and those who value political and religious freedom. It provides an opportunity for residents to connect with the specific local events that contributed to the birth of the United States. Recognizing this early act of defiance helps preserve the history of the maritime and political struggles that shaped the region before the Revolutionary War began in earnest.

• Rhode Island was the first colony to officially renounce its allegiance to the King.
• The move happened two months before the national Declaration of Independence.
• It honors the bravery of local leaders who risked their lives for freedom.
• The day highlights a long history of religious and political dissent.
• it celebrates the state’s unique role in the founding of the nation.

How to Celebrate Rhode Island Independence Day

Residents often celebrate by displaying the Rhode Island state flag, which features a gold anchor and thirteen stars on a white field. Many people visit the State House in Providence to view the original handwritten Act of Renunciation, which is often put on special display by the State Archives. Traditional ceremonies often include a 13-gun salute fired at noon to represent the thirteen original colonies and Rhode Island’s place among them.

Local historical societies and museums frequently host tours and educational programs focused on the events of 1776. Families take the opportunity to visit historical landmarks like the Old State House or the Gaspee Point, where earlier acts of defiance occurred. Community members also share their state pride on social media by posting photos of local landmarks and using symbols related to the state’s maritime heritage.

• Fly the state flag at your home to show local pride.
• Visit the State Archives to see the original Act of Renunciation.
• Attend a guided tour of the State House or the Old State House.
• Listen for the ceremonial 13-gun salute fired at noon.
• Share images of the iconic anchor symbol to mark the occasion.

Rhode Island Independence Day Dates Table

1. https://www.rihs.org/happy-r-i-independence-day/[↩]