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The historic cemetery at the corner of Barney and Mount Vernon Streets is the final resting place of many of Newport's early Irish immigrants, its stones reflect the name of the town or county of origin of the deceased.
The cemetery was established in conjunction with the founding of Rhode Island’s first Roman Catholic church, called Saint Joseph's, in 1828. That first Catholic church, a simple wooden building originally constructed as a schoolhouse, no longer stands at this site, as it was quickly outgrown by the burgeoning parish, which today worships in the beautiful St. Mary’s Church at the corner of Spring Street and Memorial Boulevard, construction of which began in 1848.
The cemetery was restored in 1999 by the Museum of Newport Irish History, which continues to maintain the site under special arrangement with the Diocese of Providence.
Volunteer researcher and guide, Steve Marino, leads the one hour tour which is weather permitting. A bit of rain won’t stop the tour, but a heavy downpour will result in cancellation.
Guests are advised to wear flat, comfortable shoes as the ground may be uneven in places.
Reservations Requested. Donations Appreciated.
Upcoming Barney Street Cemetery tours:
Sunday, October 6 – 12:30 pm
Sunday, October 20 – 12:30 pm
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