250 Ignition: The Conspiracy to Destroy the British Revenue Schooner Gaspee in 1772

It’s RI’s 250 Ignition, and there’s a moment in Rhode Island history that doesn’t get as much attention as it should… but once you hear the story, it sticks. The Conspiracy to Destroy the British Revenue Schooner Gaspee in 1772 takes center stage at the Babcock-Smith House Museum, diving into one of the boldest acts of defiance leading up to the American Revolution. Long before the Declaration of Independence, a group of Rhode Islanders took matters into their own hands, setting the stage for what resistance could look like.

Leading the presentation is John Concannon, historian for the Gaspee Days Committee, who brings both depth and clarity to the story. Drawing from his work preserving this chapter of local history, he walks through the events that led to the burning of the British schooner, why it mattered, and how it helped ignite a growing sense of rebellion in the colonies. It’s the kind of talk that connects the dots between a local incident and a much larger movement.

Set inside one of Westerly’s most historic homes, the evening feels grounded in place as much as it does in story. Admission is free for members and $5 for non-members, making it an easy way to spend some time with history that’s closer—and more consequential—than most people realize.