Upcoming fall programs by The Preservation Society of Newport County will touch on a variety of subjects from art and animals to trees and plants, and from the spirit world to symphonic music.

For more information and tickets to each of these programs, go to www.newportmansions.org/events.

"Art and Animals in the Gilded Age: Newport Stories" with Dr. Nicole Williams, Curator of Collections, The Preservation Society of Newport County

Thursday, Sept. 26, 6 p.m. at Rosecliff and via Zoom

Examine the dramatic shift in Americans’ relationship with animals that took place as the nation was transformed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Increased tourist travel, marine exploration and U.S. imperialism abroad exposed many Americans to new and exotic species; everyday people enjoyed natural history pastimes; and pet keeping surged. Dr. Williams’ talk relates to the current exhibition at Rosecliff, “Wild Imagination: Art and Animals in the Gilded Age.”

“Tree Walk at Kingscote” with Jeff Curtis, Director of Gardens & Landscapes, The Preservation Society of Newport County

Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m. at Kingscote

Explore the stunning mature arboretum at Kingscote and learn about the broad variety of specimen-quality trees, including elm, beech, linden, chestnut and weeping hemlock, on this National Historic Landmark property. This is an outdoor event, held rain or shine.

"Spiritualism in the Gilded Age" with Kathryn Sheehan, Executive Director of the Hart Cluett Museum, Troy, N.Y.

Thursday, Oct. 10, 6 p.m. at Rosecliff and via Zoom

Delve into Spiritualism, which emerged in the 19th century promoting the idea that spirits of the dead can communicate with the living. Attracting many prominent supporters, it spawned a fascination with mediums and séances, the lasting impact of which can be seen in today’s haunted houses and Ouija boards.

“The Breakers Greenhouse Guided Walk” with Jeff Curtis, Director of Gardens & Landscapes, The Preservation Society of Newport County

Saturday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m. at The Breakers Stable & Carriage House

Tour the greenhouse and learn how the work done there provides thousands of bedding plants and cut flowers for the Newport Mansions, including poinsettias and lilies for the holiday season.

“Rhapsody in Blue” with the Gilded Age Orchestra of Newport

Thursday, Nov. 14, 6 p.m. at Rosecliff

This special concert and talk will celebrate the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.” Gershwin is one of the most significant American composers of the early 20th century and his work is an important part of Newport’s musical history. The Gilded Age Orchestra of Newport will be joined by a piano soloist to perform this popular work.

The Preservation Society of Newport County, Rhode Island, is a nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the area's historic architecture, landscapes, decorative arts and social history. Its 11 historic properties – seven of them National Historic Landmarks – span more than 250 years of American architectural and social development.

For more information, please visit www.NewportMansions.org.