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.

Whether it’s national, local, new or an encore, here’s what to watch this July on Rhode Island PBS
In using strict conservation methods to protect its finite water resources, Jamestown has created a system where some residents lack clean drinking water and homes they can’t sell, rent, or live in
Rhode Island AG among 18 Democratic state attorneys general who filed the challenge in Massachusetts
Though the 2025 General Assembly session is over in Rhode Island, all eyes remain on House Speaker Joe Shekarchi. The Warwick Democrat is a potential candidate for governor, potentially setting the stage for a three-way primary with incumbent Dan McKee and former CVS executive Helena Foulkes
City officials vow to spread tax burden more evenly
RIPTA eyes service cuts and layoffs as public records reform, free school meals left to languish