Ida Lewis Revered as America’s Bravest Woman

She saved 18 people while keeping watch at the Lime Rock Lighthouse in Newport Harbor

New England Historical Society
Share
New England Historical Society
Ida Lewis Revered as America’s Bravest Woman
Copy

Did you know the so-called “bravest woman in America” was from Newport? Ida Lewis saved about 16 people during her time as the keeper at the Lime Rock Lighthouse in Newport Harbor, but rescuing two soldiers from drowning when their boat capsized on March 29, 1869, gained her national attention.

Lewis’ final rescue came in 1906, when she was 64. The lighthouse is now named in her honor.

Get the full story in the reel below.

Judge calls the Justice Department’s request a “fishing expedition” for sensitive voter information
The city council approved the Providence Rent Stabilization Act on Thursday, which would have placed a 4% cap on annual rent increases for most Providence apartments
Officials project $38 million a year once tolling resumes, but spending obligations have outpaced revenue by millions
The Providence City Council is still one vote short of a supermajority that could override Mayor Brett Smiley’s expected veto. The policy would cap annual rent increases at 4% with exceptions for owner-occupants.
Mayor Ken Hopkins says a 7.4% tax increase is necessary to maintain city services and close the existing budget gap
Plus: the Rhode Island Black Film Festival, opening day at the drive-in and more