Providence, RI - Capitol #21

And its founder, Roger Williams.

Before visiting the Capitol, we visited Roger Williams National Memorial, which celebrates the man who founded this state with the idea of freedom of conscience. 

Williams, though a devout Christian, did not believe any religion should be forced on anyone. Under His leadership, the state could not demand people join a specific church, rather everyone was free to worship as he saw fit. The state was limited. The people were free. Today, this is interpreted as "separation of church and state" and used to limit individual freedoms (e.g. No prayer in schools.) I can't imagine Roger Williams telling students they could not pray together on public property. 

Doing "school" at the 1769 Old Brick Schoolhouse.

While we were at the park, they were setting up for a citizenship swearing in ceremony. So we decided to stay and watch. Each of these individuals worked hard and jumped through many hoops to become a U.S. citizen and it was our privilege to watch the culmination of that and cheer them on.

We recited the pledge of allegiance, heard some words from National Parks service people and from Homeland (Immigration), and finally watched each person called up to receive their certificate before listening to America the Beautiful to finish the ceremony.

Then we were off to the Capitol.

Governor's reception room

Senate and house

What the rotunda normally looks like and what it looks like now

Since much was under construction it was a bit shorter tour.

Recommended local eatery. They've been making hot dogs since the 1800s! Ky said they were the best.

A quick stop by Slater Mill, the first of the Industrial Age and the start of the industrial revolution.