Annual Clam Bake

First Baptist “Old Stone Church” continues a long held tradition.

First Baptist "Old Stone" Church of Tiverton to hold its annual Clam Bake, Saturday, July 30th starting at 4pm. 

The first clambake was held in 1864.  By the early 1900’s the clambake was the social event of the area.  At it’s peak, it attracted almost 1500 people, including the mayor of Providence and the governor of Rhode Island.  It was discontinued in 1942 because of the war, but started again in 1976.

            The clambake is prepared the same way that it has been for decades.  A mound of granite rocks are firewood is made and set on fire.  The fire heats the rocks until they glow fed.  Then, rockweed is piled on top of the hot rocks, making steam and providing the distinctive clambake flavor.

            The menu has remained about the same for many years.  It includes clams with melted butter, fish, white and sweet potatoes, onions, corn on the cob, sausage, chourico, hot dogs and dressing.  Once placed in the steaming rockweed, everything is covered with a canvas and steams for about an hour and a half.  For the meal, watermelon and cold drinks are also included.

            The bake is served on the side lawn of the church property behind the fellowship hall under the white pine trees.  By 4:00 pm, the trees cast a long cool shadow and a gentle breeze usually blows.  In case of rain, the bake will be served inside the fellowship hall (but that hasn’t happened for decades).

            Tickets are $35, advanced ticket purchase required to attend by July 28th.  For more information contact the church office at 401-624-4155.