MAKING MEMORIES SINCE 1915
MAKING MEMORIES SINCE 1915Congratulations on your engagement! We wish you much happiness as you embark on this new chapter in your lives. We invite you to schedule a tour of Rhodes (evening and weekend appointments are available), and we are happy to answer any questions that you may have. We appreciate your kind consideration! Please call 401.785.4333 to schedule your tour today! Weddings at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet The famous Rhodes on the Pawtuxet was opened to the public in August of 1915. This beautiful building replaced the original structures (casino, boathouse, and ballroom), which burned to the ground in February of the same year. The architect John O’Malley designed the building in the neoclassical revival style, characterized by classical symmetry, prominent columns, and rounded arches. Many unique features of the building remain today, including 10,000 square feet of hardwood floors, 21’ ceilings with unobstructed views, the sculpture of the muse of the dance, Terpsichore, and the original Rhodes on the Pawtuxet gazebo, affectionately known as “The Trolley Stop”. In addition, the illuminated flag, long a part of Rhodes’ romantic history remains. It is said that during military balls and social dances, ladies would stand beneath the flag as a signal that they were available and waiting to be asked to dance. Many people have met their significant others at Rhodes, and it is truly a beloved Rhode Island landmark. Rhodes on the Pawtuxet underwent a complete transformation in 2020, highlighting many of its historic features. In the foyer, over the main bar, a mural of the Narragansett Bay is prominently displayed, painted by the famous watercolor artist, Hezekiah Dyer. This mural is original to Rhodes, and lends a stunning backdrop for the cocktail hour. The coffered ceiling, recently restored, frames this magnificent entryway as well. Crystal chandeliers and matching wall sconces enhance the elegance of this space. Cozy and intimate seating, defined cocktail areas, an expansive bar, and rich candlelight create an inviting space for your guests to gather and unwind. As you enter the ballroom, allow yourself to take in the beauty of this unique space. The ceiling is tented with fabric drapery and Edison lights, enhancing the height and second floor orchestra lofts, original to the building. Rich creams and ivories adorn the walls, and the historic details are subtly highlighted with gold leaf. In bygone times, famous bandleaders and their orchestras, occasionally accompanied by famous singers, including Benny Goodman, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Artie Shaw, Glenn Miller, and Tony Bennett (just to name a few!) performed on the original three-tiered stage. The ballroom boasts one of the finest dance floors in all of New England, and is a stunning backdrop for a wedding or other special occasion. Rhodes on the Pawtuxet and its surviving structures were added to the prestigious Registry of Historic Places in 1978.