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Cliff Walk Trail Marker #1

Easton’s Beach
You’re looking down at historic Easton's Beach, a 3/4-mile-long surf beach.

Relax and play on the white sand on the Atlantic ocean beach of Easton's Beach, known by the Newport locals as First Beach
http://www.eastonsbeach.com
 
The History of Easton’s Beach

Nicholas Easton (c.1593—1675) was one of the first settlers in Newport, and an early colonial Governor of Rhode Island after which the Beach was named.

By the turn of the twentieth century, vacations had become a popular pastime for middle-class Americans. Reduced work hours and higher wages gave them the time and the means to participate in leisure activities.  Easton's Beach became one of the vacation beaches for middle- and working-class visitors.

In the late nineteenth century, Easton's Beach had a restaurant, a bathing pavilion, and a bathing area. Mixed-sex bathing from eleven to noon was the norm, followed by swimming for men only from noon to three. An observer wryly commented that middle-class women bathers could be distinguished by their bare legs.

For a historical look back at early 20th century life at Easton’s, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEH1qm82V08