Overview
The newsletter details Newport Historical Society activities, local history research, and community programs. It highlights discoveries about 18th–19th century stone carver Jonas (J.) Stewart and documents museum exhibits, volunteer contributions, and gift shop offerings tied to Newport’s heritage and upcoming 250th anniversary.
Coverage also profiles Team Pinnacle’s formation and trail‑race history, outlines research and genealogy tools added to the NHS website, and lists upcoming lecture events and membership information.
You can read the online version of the newsletter here.
This quarterly newsletter is generally published in January, April, July and October.
Main Points
- Jonas Stewart, Stone Carver: Jonas Stewart Sr. was a prolific gravestone carver originally from Newton, MA, who settled in Claremont, NH, and, along with his sons, created hundreds of gravestones across New England over a 50-year career.
- Distinctive Carving Phases: Stewart’s work is categorized into five artistic phases: Pumpkin Head (1770-1785), Winged Cherub (1785-1795), Winged Body (1795-1805), Urn & Willow (1805-1820), and VIP Stones (throughout his career).
- Family Legacy: Two of Jonas Stewart’s eight children, James G. and Jonas II, also became stone carvers, continuing the family tradition and contributing to the region’s gravestone art.
- Signed Work: The only known signed gravestone by Jonas Stewart is the Betsy Hurd stone in Pine Street West Cemetery, making it a unique historical artifact.
- Influence and Reach: Stewart’s gravestones are found in multiple New England cemeteries, with a significant presence in Pine Street West, Union Cemetery, and Forest Hill Cemetery, reflecting his popularity and demand.
- Unresolved Mystery: Despite extensive research, the graves of Jonas Stewart, his wife Mary, and their eight children remain undiscovered; only the graves of two grandchildren have been located.
- Team Pinnacle: Founded in 1999, Team Pinnacle is a community group promoting outdoor activities, maintaining trails, and organizing races and charity events in Newport, NH.
- Museum and Community Engagement: The Newport Historical Society operates a local museum, organizes educational programs, and offers a gift shop with historical ornaments and gravestone art, supporting local heritage and public involvement.
Check out our Events Calendar to keep informed of upcoming events!
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