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George T. Downing
b. New York City, NY, December 30, 1819
d. Newport, RI, July 21, 1903
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Prominent Newport citizen, African American entrepreneur, engaged in hospitality
sector - restaurant and hotel business. Arrives Newport in the mid 1840's.
Owner of Sea-Girt House or hotel which fronts Bellevue Avenue. The building
(five stories) has large stores on first floor and accommodations upstairs.
The complex includes the Downing residence and restaurant. Amenities include
dinners and game suppers in private parlors and accommodations for gentlemen
boarders and families.
Operates confectionery and catering business; supplies the cottages - services
include the providing of music.
Arson fire destroys original block on December 15,1860. Rebuilt - various
physical changes have been made since Downing ownership. The block that
bears his name still exists. Located on Bellevue, bordered by Liberty and
Downing Streets.
One of 26 men and women who donate monies for the purchase of land to be
known as Touro Park (1865). Downing name is inscribed on stone marker at
park.
Member of the committee responsible for the Bellevue Avenue extension to
Bailey's Beach.
Uses his influence towards the desegregation of Newport schools (1865);
member of the equal rights movement in Rhode Island.
Dies at home, funeral held at Emmanuel Church, located on Dearborn Street.
Ardent advocate of the Negro's cause; works for the advancement of this
race, and member of anti-slavery societies.
Learns restaurant business from his father - a proprietor of NYC restaurant
and oyster house which is frequented by prominent people from all walks
of life.
Makes important contacts through this establishment. Influenced by leaders
of freedom movements who frequent this business; Downing joins anti-slavery
movement at a very early age.
After the Civil War, Downing realizes increased exposure as advocate of
equal rights and is sent to Washington, DC to protect interests of fellow
Negroes during reconstruction.
The most prestigious Downing enterprise: in charge of the cafe/dining room
of U.S. House of Representatives at the Capitol. This grants Downing the
opportunity to influence and lobby policy-makers. Operates this concession
for over a decade.
He married Serena Leanora de Grasse, November 24,1841, the daughter of
George de Grasse - (considered to be the protègè of Aaron
Burr).
Bibliography
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