The Preservation Society of Newport County welcomes teachers and students to its historic properties. Over two centuries of American history, art, and cultural development are represented in the PSNC’s collection of properties, which makes Newport an ideal learning laboratory for students! Through teacher resources, including the new Edible Schoolyard at Green Animals, the Preservation Society encourages students to learn by experiencing our properties first hand.
Student Group Tours
To arrange for student group tours of Preservation Society properties, please contact our Group Tours Department via email to Groups@NewportMansions.org
Special Student Tours
Marble House Mythology and Architecture Tour - Grades 4-8
Marble House was the summer home of Mr. and Mrs. William K. Vanderbilt. It was built between 1888 and 1892 as a birthday gift for Mr. Vanderbilt's wife Alva, who imagined Marble House to be her "temple to the arts."
The Marble House Mythology and Architecture Tour allows students to explore the idea that buildings do not just appear - they are created from the ideas and hands of architects. An architect begins the creative process with inspiration. This inspiration can come from many sources, including other buildings and works of art, life, feelings, materials, nature, history and people. Marble House (1888-1892) was a home designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt, but greatly influenced by its owner Mrs. Alva Vanderbilt. Alva loved architecture, history, the mythology of the Greeks and Romans as well as the architecture of the Kings and Queens of Europe.
Marble House Mythology & Architecture Tour Teacher's Guide
Edible Schoolyard Program
Based on the vision of Alice Waters, founder of the Edible Schoolyard Project, the Preservation Society has partnered with teachers and administrators on Aquidneck Island to create a sustainable learning environment with a classroom and lesson plans that follow the Rhode Island Learning Standards.
Learn more about the Edible Schoolyard.