Bristol, RI, a charming coastal town steeped in maritime history, has been shaped by generations of influential families whose enduring legacies are woven into its very fabric. Their contributions to the town’s economy, culture, and architecture are beautifully preserved in the historic landmarks that grace its scenic landscape. From stately mansions to iconic waterfronts, Bristol’s rich heritage continues to tell the story of its vibrant past. Here, we profile three families who have played a pivotal role in shaping Bristol’s identity.
The Van Wickle Family and Blithewold Mansion
The Van Wickle family, originally from New Jersey, made their mark on Bristol in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Augustus Van Wickle, a prominent businessman, and his wife, Bessie, purchased a large estate on Bristol Harbor in 1894. They purchased the property because it came with a large mooring for their new steam yacht, The Marjorie, built by the renowned Bristol boatbuilder Nathanael Herreshoff. Eschewing the over-the-top grandeur of the mansions in nearby Newport, RI, the Van Wickles spent the next decades transforming the property into a magnificent Italian Renaissance-style mansion, known today as Blithewold. The Van Wickles created a rural sanctuary at Blithewold that reflected their unique tastes and diverse interests.
Prioritizing informality, friendship, outdoor pursuits, and community service over status or ostentation, the family adapted European and American architectural, garden design, and interior furnishing conventions to suit their lifestyle. Blithewold is a stunning architectural gem, boasting ornate gardens, a conservatory, and a private beach. The Van Wickle family’s passion for horticulture and art is evident throughout the estate. Today, Blithewold is a popular tourist attraction,offering visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy American family during the Gilded Age.
The Herreshoff Family and Herreshoff Manufacturing Company
The Herreshoff Manufacturing Company, founded by brothers John Brown Herreshoff and Captain Nathanael Greene Herreshoff, designed and built some of the most powerful racing sloops ever seen, as well as popular one-design classes that continue to captivate boat enthusiasts today.
In 1878, they joined forces and quickly achieved success. Between 1893 and 1914, the brothers designed and built seven of the largest and most powerful racing sloops ever created. An impressive five of these vessels were selected to defend the America’s Cup, and all five emerged victorious. In addition to their America’s Cup triumphs, the Herreshoffs designed and built hundreds of custom sailboats and introduced several one-design classes, including the Herreshoff 12’1/2s and 15-footers, S boats, and New York 30’s, 40’s, and 50’s, which all remain unmatched for their exhilarating and enjoyable sailing experiences.
The Dewolf Family and Linden Place
Another influential family in Bristol’s history is the DeWolf family. James DeWolf, a prominent figure in Bristol, Rhode Island, was a wealthy merchant and U.S. senator who amassed a vast fortune through the slave trade. Their wealth funded numerous buildings and institutions, including the stained glass windows at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. Over time, the family produced state legislators, philanthropists, writers, scholars, and even Episcopal bishops and priests. In 1810, George DeWolf built Linden Place, a Federal-style mansion that is open to the public for tours and events. The DeWolf family and their descendants occupied Linden Place for 177 years until the Friends of Linden Place, a non-profit organization, took ownership in 1988.
One of the most notable residents was Colonel Samuel Pomeroy Colt, George DeWolf’s grandson. Colt founded Industrial Trust Bank, which later merged to form Fleet, and also established U.S. Rubber, the predecessor of Uniroyal Tires. Linden Place is considered Bristol’s “architectural crown jewel” and holds significant historical and social value for the town.
DeWolf Tavern
Linden Place isn’t the only present-day tie to the Dewolf family’s legacy. The DeWolf Tavern occupies a renovated warehouse built in 1818 by the Dewolf’s to house their ships used in the Triangular Trade. The warehouse underwent major renovations and opened as a restaurant in 2004. Like many other Bristol businesses, the DeWolf brothers were also rum producers. Their distillery was housed in what is now the lobby area of the adjacent Bristol Harbor Inn. During the Tavern’s restoration, remnants of eighteen wooden barrels used in rum production were discovered. One of them is on display in the restaurant’s lobby.
These three families, the Van Wickles, the Herreshoffs, and the DeWolfs, have left an indelible mark on Bristol, Rhode Island.Their contributions to the city’s economy, culture, history, and architecture have helped shape its identity and make it a vibrant and historic destination.
If you’re interested in buying or selling a property in Bristol, RI or its surrounding communities, Hogan Associates Christie’s International Real Estate will gladly be your guide. Call us at (401) 680-6588 or send a message to info@hoganri.com.
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