Highlighting the places and people that helped us build local memories.

Remember that old diner or drive-in? How about that carousel that you went on over and over again as a child? Well, our team at Shop Local Rhody certainly remembers. That is why we have a created a special section called Retro Blast. Our goal is to highlight the local establishments that have lasted over many generations, and are still here today. So sit back, and enjoy reading these stories. Hopefully they will spark some great memories, just as they have for our staff.

Rustic Drive-In

Ah, the Drive-In’s. Built 1951, this three screen Drive-In Theatre is the last operating Drive-In in the state, showing movies from late April to early October every year. In 1958 there were 4,063 of Drive-In’s nationwide. Now, there are only a little more than 400. During the “golden age of the automobile”, drive-in theaters and other car-oriented concepts could be found everywhere.

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Twin Oaks Restaurant

William DeAngelus Sr. founded Twin Oaks in 1933. In 1928 during prohibition, William began distilling whiskey to sell to his friends and his basement became a “speakeasy” and locals called it Moonshining. Moonshining was later destroyed and within that year Twin Oaks was born. The restaurant had two small private dining rooms that held 16 people maximum, the main dining room accommodated up to forty people.

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Slater Mill

Recognized internationally as the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, the museum celebrates innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit by engaging audiences in relevant cultural, historic, and artistic endeavors.

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The Haven Brothers

Founded in 1893, Haven Brothers has been a family owned business and a cultural icon in the heart of downtown Providence, Rhode Island. Haven Brothers Mobile brings freshly prepared food directly to your next event.

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White Horse Tavern

The White Horse Tavern is the “oldest operating restaurant in the U.S.” and is acknowledged as the 10th oldest in the world in addition to being a National Historic Landmark, having served guests since 1673.

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Wright's Farm

The Galleshaw's single simple focus of offering a true family style experience for everyone has been a success for over 50 years! Wright's Farm is "Good Food for Good Times, Family Style" and the Galleshaw family wants your Wright's Farm experience to become a ritual that you will return for again and again!

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Aunt Carrie's

Located in Narragansett Rhode Island Aunt Carrie’s is just a few short minutes from the local beaches and fishing spots, situated in the heart of Point Judith. For years, Aunt Carrie’s has been a place where locals, tourists, friends and families alike can relax and enjoy a taste of traditional Rhode Island seafood and homemade cooking while taking in the cool ocean breezes and wonderful views.

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Tavern on Main

The village of Chepachet was the site of the most controversial political upheavals in Rhode Island's history. In 1842, Chepachet resident Thomas Door, a well respected lawyer was a duly elected Rhode Island governor by the people's party. The incumbent governor, Samuel King refused to step down. Governor Door called the RI general assembly to convene in
this building on July 4, 1842.

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The Breakers

The Breakers is tucked away on Ochre Point Avenue, just a short distance from most of the other Newport mansions on Bellevue Avenue. It is less than half a mile from Ochre Court, another mansion that is now part of Salve Regina University. Built in just two years (1893-1895) at a cost of over 7 million dollars (equivalent to over $150 million today), this National Historic Landmark was the summer home of Cornelius Vanderbilt II.

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The Tower's

The Towers is a historic structure located in Narragansett, Rhode Island. It is the only remnant of the Narragansett Pier Casino built in the 1880s. This casino was the center of social life in Narragansett during the late 19th century. The Casino rivaled the Newport Casino’s popularity as a resort for the social elite until it burned down in 1900.

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Murphy’s Pub

Murphy’s Pub was established in 1929 being the oldest running pub in Providence. It is known for it’s heaping sandwiches, hearty dinners, modest prices and greatest service. No wonder they have been in business for so long! Joseph Murphy opened Murphy’s Lunch in the Industrial National Building right before the Great Depression.

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The 40 Steps, Newport, RI

The 40 steps is a beautiful landmark that is located right near the famous Newport Cliff Walk (at the east end of Narragansett Ave). This used to be one of the most popular hang out spots for the servants that worked at all of the Newport mansions during the Gilded Age.

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Old Brick School House

The growing idea of promoting education to all in support of a free society was at the heart of this old brick schoolhouse. This building was completed in 1769 by John Smith and embodies a special kind of significance in the history of Providence. By 1800, this became one of the earliest public education systems.

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Flying Horse Carousel

The Flying Horse Carousel is the oldest continually running carousel in the United States and is located in Watch Hill, RI down near the beach. It was originally built in 1867 by Andrew Christian and Charles Dare Company, a group based out of NYC.

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