Musings on island life

From the editor ~ September/October 2024

Dear readers,

There’s something about islands. Something that draws you in and makes you aware of outlines and edges. Some islands are quiet and remote. A reprieve from the chaos of the larger world, a return to another way of life, to another time. Even if they are but a boat ride from a bustling coastal enclave.

Rose Island is such a place. Removed, but in plain sight. Always there, even if you haven’t been to visit, yet. A home for nesting birds and past relics: a lighthouse built before the bridge; bunkers built to fortify a new world. There is a quietness about the island, even with the many seagulls that lay claim to its rocky shores and lush landscape.

Like many people who grew up on Aquidneck Island, I had never been to Rose Island, at least not until this summer. I’d seen it, of course, from the Newport Bridge, from the harbor, from Battery Park and Goat Island.

In fact, as I was writing this editor’s note, from an outdoor table at Mozz on a Saturday morning in late August, sipping on a cappuccino and savoring a slice of frittata, along with the last of summer, I ran into a friend. He asked what I was working on, and I told him about Rose Island and my three visits there this summer, all related to this issue of the magazine.

His response echoed many I received from friends: “You know, I’ve never been there!” Followed by thoughts on what that says about their status as a local. I assured this friend he was not alone that, until this summer, I had never been there either, nor had my coworkers or the family of four that appear on this cover. I shared some of what I’ve learned about the place, hoping to inspire him to plan his own excursion, one that might double as an escape, whether for the weekend or an afternoon.

I told him how, on one visit, I ran into nearly a dozen familiar faces, some of them working as volunteers in the gardens, others setting up for a weekend wedding, while others were escorting a group of youths in summer camp, serving as tour guides for visitors arriving on the Jamestown Newport Ferry, or as boat captains driving Rose, the island’s launch. How, despite being isolated, there was a distinct feeling of community and camaraderie.

For all these reasons, Rose Island seemed the perfect backdrop for this issue’s fall fashion photoshoot, which highlights the shifting of seasons and the time of year when shorts and a flannel or cable knit sweater is coastal perfection. Our models this year are the Nary family of Portsmouth, who show us all the ways to be casually chic.

The Nary’s, after our photoshoot, did what many visitors to the island do: climb to the top of the lighthouse for a 356-degree panoramic view of Narragansett Bay. Visitors also search for seashells and sea glass, swim off the shore and, when nesting season is over, explore the whole island’s perimeter. Chris
Reeves, who serves as Island Manager, wrote about its history and current happenings for this issue; you can find that story just before our fashion spread on page 22.

Two of the gardeners involved with projects on Rose Island are Horus Khuit and Kidder Gowen, who own and operate Hawk & Handsaw Farm in Portsmouth, where they grow and sell produce, some of which is sent to the kitchen at Flora, the new Spanish Mediterranean restaurant at Gardiner House under the direction of Chef Miguel Somoza. Read all about his culinary influences (and love for bread) in Andrea McHugh’s story on page 40.

Over at Small World Farm in Little Compton, the Bowen family operates an organic apple orchard and farm stand — a perfect detour for autumn adventures, one Bob Curley explores in his latest column. We also have a story on Rogue Island Comedy Festival, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and the Circle of Scholars program at Salve Regina University, which is entering its 30th year.

Whether hopping on a boat or setting out on a scenic drive, grabbing dinner and drinks with friends, or venturing out for a laugh or a seminar, there is something for everyone this season. Just be sure to pack a chunky sweater or flannel shirt — you can never go wrong with an extra layer.

Until November,

Helena

Managing Editor

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