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.

From her Pawtucket mill studio to an upcoming solo show at Boston’s Gallery NAGA, multi-media artist Kirstin Lamb reflects on her journey, inspirations, and the intricate dot-based paintings that blend Impressionism, cross-stitch, and digital design
The strike that began May 15 forced the Providence psychiatric hospital to close roughly half its beds
After multiple bat sightings at the Friendship Street building, Rhode Island’s Department of Children, Youth and Families shifted to remote work. Union leaders say the infestation highlights deeper health and safety issues as the state weighs renewing the lease
A coalition of 21 Democratic attorneys general — including those from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut — says the Trump administration is unlawfully restricting over $1 billion in VOCA grants, threatening support for crime victims and survivors