Battle of Rhode Island Association receives grants from the Town of Portsmouth and Rhode Island Society of Colonial Wars

Recently the Battle of Rhode Island Association (BoRIA) received the welcome news that we were awarded two more grants. The Town of Portsmouth awarded a $2000 Civic Engagement grant which is being used to remove the invasive plants at Butts Hill Fort. This removal has widened the paths around the Fort as part of our open space development. This also allows better viewing of the massive earthworks built by French engineers, Patriots, and members of the RI Black Regiment in 1780-1781. After a recent visit to the Fort, Rich Rainer stated “As the Town Administrator of Portsmouth, I am delighted to see the Town Council’s decision to award Civic Support funding to the Battle of Rhode Island Association (BoRIA). This grant will be instrumental in supporting the preservation efforts of Butts Hill Fort, a significant historical site dating back to the American Revolutionary War. The Town of Portsmouth values and recognizes the importance of preserving our heritage, and we are proud to contribute to BoRIA’s ongoing work in safeguarding this essential piece of our history.”

We were also awarded a $2000 grant from the Rhode Island Society of Colonial Wars. Avery Seaman Jr, Governor of the RI Society, remarked “Please continue your and the Association’s good work”. Our founding director, the late Colonel Burt Quist, was instrumental in securing these funds. These funds will also be used in our restoration efforts at the Fort.

BoRIA is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit committed to raising awareness of Rhode Island’s role in the War for Independence. Donations may be made payable to “BoRIA” at PO Box 626, Portsmouth, RI, 02871