Episode 1/26

@ Flag of Rhode Island State
Toccata begins his tour of Rhode Island. Hey, welcome to the Ocean State!
Flag of Rhode Island State
The flag of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations dates from King Charles II colonial times and was officially adopted in 1897, with minor changes. The flag comprises a white field, with thirteen golden stars, representing the original thirteen colonies and the fact Rhode Island was the thirteenth and last colony to sign the Declaration of Independence. The state motto, "HOPE", is written with golden letters in a blue ribbon, below a golden anchor, that also represents hope, in reference to Biblical phrase "Hope we have as an anchor of the soul" (Hebrews 6:18-19).

Episode 2/26

@ Rhode Island - State House
Blue And Copper Egg
The first painted eggs came from Mesopotamia, and because eggs were forbidden food during Lent, people painted eggs while Lent was being observed—after Lent, they would eat the eggs on Easter Day.

Beautifully decorated eggs “pysanka” are associated with Ukraine, and the oldest painted egg that was unearthed in northern Ukraine is dated to the end of the 17th century.
Rhode Island - State House
This neoclassical treasure is located in Providence, and is the fourth largest stone structed dome in the world.

Episode 3/26

@ Rhode Island - Winter Pond
Portsmouth, RI is home to the oldest schoolhouse in the United States. The school was built in 1716.
Rhode Island - Winter Pond
When a heavy frost settles into the trees, calling forth winter, it paints an incredible sight, but catch it early before the sun melts the art into the foliage below.

Episode 4/26

@ Rhode Island - Marina
“A picture of this would look lovely printed on Christmas cards, wouldn't it, Toccata?” Sapphire Rose said.
“It certainly would, Sapphire Rose!" said Toccata.
Rhode Island - Marina
Surrounded by so much water, there are many marinas to park your favorite watercraft.

Episode 5/26

@ Rhode Island Red Rooster
Settled in 1642, Pawtuxet Village in Warwick, RI, lays claim to being New England’s oldest village.
Rhode Island Red Rooster
Cock-a-doodle-doo! I'm famous, are you?

Episode 6/26

@ Rhode Island - Marble House
“If there's time at the end of the day when we get back to our accommodation, I might do some initial sketches for a watercolour painting," Hero said, offering Toccata a Reese's peanut butter cup from the bag and then unwrapping one for himself.
“That sounds like a good plan, Hero!" said Toccata. "Very relaxing, and your painting will be a great souvenir of the Eastern Seaboard of the USA!"
Rhode Island - Marble House
The Marble House, located in Newport, shows off it's beautiful sculpted stone façade, and teases visitors to step inside the "summer cottage" as it was called when built at the end of the 19th century, to explore the rest of the artistry!

Episode 7/26

@ Shoreline, Rhode Island
The first Afro-American regiment to fight for America made a gallant stand against the British in the Battle of Rhode Island.
Shoreline, Rhode Island
The lowering clouds and cold grey sea make this is a dramatic image of large waves rolling inland ready to break on the boulders ahead.

Episode 8/26

@ Rhode Island - Newport
VIOLA was distracted by the sounds of loud rustling as Toccata unfolded a very large tourist map, in the course of which he succeeded in knocking VIOLA’s hat off. “Put that away, do!” said VIOLA, exasperated. “We’re about to pose beside this amazing scene—the picture will be of your map if you don’t fold it up PDQ!”
Rhode Island - Newport
Standing on the windswept shore, watching the sun creep slowly up from the horizon, painting the picturesque background behind the city.

Episode 9/26

@ Rhode Island - Sea Grass
The first British troops sent from England to quash the revolution landed in Newport, RI.
Rhode Island - Sea Grass
Sea grasses grow on the sand dunes, offering a little respite for hot paws!

Episode 10/26

@ Rhode Island - Kitchen
Portsmouth, RI is home to the oldest schoolhouse in the United States. The school was built in 1716.
Rhode Island - Kitchen
J & W famous alumni is a long and distinguished list of top chefs! Starting in humble beginnings of kitchen duty, you'll learn your way around every aspect of culinary skills! Who knows you might be the next E'mril LaGrassy!

Episode 11/26

@ Rhode Island - Breakers Mansion
Toccata and Flip Flop Flap had shaken paws and took some time to enjoy the super view in a companionable silence!
Rhode Island - Breakers Mansion
Restored to glory, the gilded frame hung over the ornate fireplace mantle, a true decorator's joy is the matching baroque furniture.

Episode 12/26

@ Rhode Island - Rochambeau Monument
George M. Cohan was born in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1878. He wrote, "I'm a Yankee Doodle Dandy," "You're a Grand Old Flag," and a wide variety of other musical entertainment.
Rhode Island - Rochambeau Monument
Erected for monument to French nobleman and General Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, it was restored in 2019, honoring his contributions in the Revolutionary War.

Episode 13/26

@ Rhode Island - Beach Houses
“A picture of this would look lovely printed on Christmas cards, wouldn't it, Toccata?” Mitsy said.
“It certainly would, Mitsy!" said Toccata.
Rhode Island - Beach Houses
Prime real estate nestled on the tip of the outcrop, you'll have a front window view of the ocean and her glory, and the birds and beasts that call the deep home.

Episode 14/26

@ Rhode Island - Castle Hill Lighthouse
Toccata and Signet had shaken paws and took some time to enjoy the super view in a companionable silence!
Rhode Island - Castle Hill Lighthouse
The perfect touristy shot, a lighthouse at sunset! Perfect for printing and framing.

Episode 15/26

@ Rhode Island - Claiborne Pell Bridge
Rhode Island founder Roger Williams established the First Baptist Church in America in 1638. The existing structure was built in 1775.
Rhode Island - Claiborne Pell Bridge
Connecting Aquidneck and Conanicut Islands, the bridge is also called the Newport bridge. Named after Claiborne Pell, a Senator who lived in Newport, it's a great way to stay connected from island to island.

Episode 16/26

@ Rhode Island - Gazebo
Toccata and BINE shook paws, said “How do you do?” and posed for a souvenir photo. “Why am I always on the left?” grumbled Toccata. “Let’s change sides.”
“No,” said BINE. “This is my best side.”
Rhode Island - Gazebo
Nestled in the Greene Island Botanical Garden, this gazebo is a great stop for a photo shoot or rest your weary paws.

Episode 17/26

@ Rhode Island - Stone Lighthouse
Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, established the first practical working model of Democracy after he was banished from Plymouth, Massachusetts because of his "extreme views" concerning freedom of speech and religion. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams publicly acknowledged Roger Williams, as the originator of the concepts and principles reflected in The First Amendment. Among those principles were freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom of public assembly.
Rhode Island - Stone Lighthouse
Point Judith Light, located on Narrangansett Bay, is a good place to hang your laundry to dry, with the sea breezes blowing in. Freshly laundered sheets hung to dry smell like sunshine.

Episode 18/26

@ Rhode Island - Rocky Beach
The first torpedo boat "Stiletto" was built in Bristol, RI in 1887.
Rhode Island - Rocky Beach
No worries about getting the sand out of your paws when you walk this beach looking for glass!

Episode 19/26

@ Rhode Island - Rose Island
The Redwood Library and Athenaeum in Newport, Rhode Island, is the United States' oldest library building.
Rhode Island - Rose Island
Accessible only by boat, Rose Island is such named because of the rose shape it takes on at low tide. Lucky pets can book the room, but it's hard to get a reservation!

Episode 20/26

@ Rhode Island - Lighthouse
New England's oldest Masonic Temple in Warren was built in the 18th century with timbers from British frigates sunk in Newport Harbor, RI during the Revolutionary War.
Rhode Island - Lighthouse
Located on the point in Warwick, the endless beach is fun to walk, while the lighthouse keeps seafarers safe from the shallows.

Episode 21/26

@ Rhode Island Beach House
The first British troops sent from England to quash the revolution landed in Newport, RI.
Rhode Island Beach House
Salty sea air breezes in your cottage windows out on Block Island. Book a stay for a weekend, but be warned, you may not want to check out.

Episode 22/26

@ Rhode Island - Storm on the Island
Rhode Island founder Roger Williams established the First Baptist Church in America in 1638. The existing structure was built in 1775.
Rhode Island - Storm on the Island
Crashing waves thunder on the shore, the wild winds whipping the sea into a frenzy, good thing you're nestled in with a hot cocoa and a good book! Not a day to explore the Island.

Episode 23/26

@ Rhode Island - Storm on the Pier
The world's largest bug is on the roof of Big Blue Bug Solutions in Providence, Rhode Island. It's a big blue termite, 58 feet long and 928 times actual termite size.

Rhode Island - Storm on the Pier
Be careful! The wind whips up waves quickly and you don't want to get your newly groomed fur wet in the crisp air.

Episode 24/26

@ Rhode Island - Vintage Car
Built in 1880 Channing Memorial Church, Rhode Island, was named for William Ellery Channing, a leader in the Unitarian Church and the abolitionist movement. Julia Ward Howe, author of the "Battle Hymn of the Republic", attended this church.
Rhode Island - Vintage Car
During the heyday of millionaires, cars such as this were a common sight, chauffeuring the rich and famous from party to party. This vintage photo showcases Governor Wetmore, who held office from 1895-1907.

Episode 25/26

@ Rhode Island - Block Island Lighthouse
Judge Darius Baker imposed the first jail sentence for speeding in an automobile on August 28, 1904 in Newport, RI.
Rhode Island - Block Island Lighthouse
Beautiful in the simplicity of the architecture, and strong enough to withstand the buffeting winds, the light keeps our sailors safe as they travel along.

Episode 26/26

@ Rhode Island - National Hotel
As Toccata's tour of "Rhode Island" comes to an end, he receives a wonderful gift!
Short Tree, Blue
Gorgeous blue-leafed tree. Perhaps it grows in the fairy forest, or maybe the wizard worked some magic. If you can get seeds from this tree, you may have luck growing it in your garden.
Rhode Island - National Hotel
Built to overlook the long shoreline on Block Island, everypet will enjoy watching the sunset from your room. Then explore the island and enjoy some great fresh seafood!
Toccata has completed his tour of "Rhode Island"! Your US tour is over now, but maybe we'll visit other US states in future!