1. Rhode Island Officially Becomes a State – On May 29, 1790, Rhode Island officially became the 13th state to join the Union. It was the last of the original 13 colonies to do so, waiting two years after the US Constitution was ratified to join.

2. Birth of the Industrial Revolution – In 1793, the first successful water-powered cotton-spinning mill in the United States was built in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. The Slater Mill, named after its inventor, Samuel Slater, kicked off the Industrial Revolution in America and changed the face of manufacturing forever.

3. Modern State House Opens – On May 29, 1901, the Rhode Island State House officially opened its doors. The majestic building, built in the Beaux Arts style, was designed by the architect of the US Capitol, and features a massive marble dome, intricate murals and impressive statues.

4. College Hill Tunnel Collapses – In 1956, the College Hill Tunnel in Providence, which carried Route 195 under College Hill, collapsed, killing five people. The tragedy resulted in increased scrutiny of infrastructure and led to the installation of better safety mechanisms on bridge and tunnel projects.

5. Seaman’s Church Institute Established – In 1919, the Seaman’s Church Institute was established in Providence to help improve the lives of the seafaring community. Today, it continues to offer various programs and services to help those who live and work on the water, including education, advocacy, and counseling.