Where: Rhode Island · approx. 41.49, -71.31 (vicinity only)
Why this spot: 1880s+ Sanborn-mapped town on Newport Harbor on Narragansett Bay, with wharves lining the west waterfront
What turns up: One of the oldest ports in America, active since the 1700s. Behind and beneath the old wharf district and privy pits expect black-glass sealed wine and ale bottles, pontiled flasks and medicines, clay pipe stems, creamware and pearlware sherds, plus Gilded-Age mansion-era colored bottles and bitters in later fill.
Access: Gray area.
Rhode Island's constitution reserves strong public rights along the shore, and the tidelands and beds of navigable waters are state public-trust land where removing historic artifacts is restricted. The harbor uplands are largely private and need the landowner's permission. State law protects archaeological sites and unmarked burials. Confirm current rules with the RI Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission and the CRMC before digging near the water.
Open in Mudlark Map →
Satellite view, historic-map overlays, tide/flow context and field notes are in the app. Exact research detail is part of Pro.
Pins are approximate by design. This page is historical research, not permission to dig. Check ownership and local law first.