1. Rhode Island was the last of the original 13 colonies to declare independence from England on June 13, 1776. The state's founder, Roger Williams, believed in a government that upheld separation of church and state, and Rhode Island eventually became the first colony to grant religious freedom to all its citizens.

2. On June 13, 1846, the construction of the Washington Bridge in Providence was completed. This wrought-iron truss bridge spans the Seekonk River and was one of the longest bridges in the world at the time of its completion.

3. In 1893, the Newport Casino was opened on June 13th. Originally a social club, the Newport Casino gained greater fame as a venue for tennis matches, hosting the first US National Tennis Championship in 1881.

4. June 13, 1954, marked the opening of the Providence Civic Center, now known as the Dunkin' Donuts Center. This multi-purpose arena has hosted numerous events, including sporting events, concerts, and political conventions.

5. The Rhode Island State House was dedicated on June 13, 1904. The building is the capitol of Rhode Island and features the world's fourth-largest self-supporting marble dome. The structure contains numerous works of art and has been designated a National Historic Landmark.