Ahead of 50th Anniversary, Newport Students Draw Pell Bridge

NEWPORT, RI — In honor of its 50th anniversary, Newport elementary schoolers drew pictures to celebrate the Pell Bridge. The students, ranging from kindergarten through third grade, are from Pell Elementary School in Newport, also the namesake of beloved Rhode Island Senator Clairborne Pell.

Each student interpreted the bridge in their own way, drawing sunsets, boats, sunny skies or whatever inspired them.

"Art is alive and well at Pell and our students were excited to portray one of the most iconic institutions of our community," said Pell Elementary Art Teacher Diane Sheehan.

The artwork is on display in the main lobby of the Newport Post Office and the atrium of Newport Hospital.

"We’re delighted to have our local students participate in the festivities surrounding the Newport Pell Bridge’s 50th Anniversary Celebration," said Evan Smith, the chairman of the Newport Bridge 50th Anniversary Celebration. "Our youth are the future stewards of the Newport Pell Bridge and will steer its prosperity into the next 50 years."

A public 50th anniversary celebration will be held at Fort Adams State Park, in the shadow of the bridge, on June 28 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The celebration will include local food trucks, a performance by the Take It To The Bridge band and fireworks. In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled to June 30.

"Come out and share your favorite bridge stories and memories while making new ones with your family, friends and neighbors," Smith said.