Documenting Change since 2002

History contributes to a fuller future

ArtInRuins documents the architectural landscape to collect the oral, written, and photographic history of important places in Rhode Island. We are a safe space for storytelling, memory-sharing, and dreaming about the future of the built environment. More about A.I.R.

458 properties and 12 Essays with 7,567 images. Browse more from our Categories and Tags.

Recently added/updated Subscribe

#WhatAreTheyBuilding: Under Construction

Also! The list of new building proposals we are keeping an eye on.

Recent Anecdotes Subscribe

2,028 anecdotes from people just like you.

  • Im one of the Lincoln McDevitts. Im the grandson of John E. McDevitt. I remember my grandfather telling me about the store when I was a kid in the 80s.
    Joseph McDevitt on McDevitt Building
  • I remember the brewery operational in the 70s. I remember the once maximum jail off 95 in Warwick with the lights lit when we used to go to my aunts house in Warwick. I did enter that jail a few years ago and found some handcuffs that I did keep, anyway, I remember my parents ...
    Raymond L on United Traction Company Depot and Repair Barn
  • I was an Aircraft Electrician E5 stationed at Quonset Point 1964 through 1967, working in the Aircraft Maintenance hanger. My job was diagnosing and repairing autopilot and navigation systems, mostly for P2 and P3 antisubmarine patrol aircraft, but included whatever airplanes ...
    James Curran on Quonset Point Naval Air Station
  • I’ve been part of the carpentry team building out Green Line. There will be a scaled down Soda fountain and retail area at the North Main entrance. Behind that will be 3 apartments, 3 on the 2nd flr and one on the top floor. (via Facebook)
    Jayson Salvi’s Hand Painted Signs on North Main Street, #905
  • I have owned the building since 2022. We are just finishing restoring the rose window facing Sutton Street. I have always wanted to see what the clock, tower and tile work originally looked like. If you have any leads please reach out.
    Valerie on Barnaby Carriage House
  • I was a Corpsman at the hospital in 1969 to 1970. Was a great duty station.
    Mike Williamson on Quonset Point Naval Air Station
  • the Bevo Club location at 566 south main st across from the hot club was first the location of the River Cafe nightclub in 1986 to 1992
    pat cortellessa on Shooter’s Waterfront Cafe
  • I was at that party in 2008, too. Have been trying to piece together details from it so it was great to see photos. What Cheer played and yeah — it seems like Lightning Bolt played too. Everyone had headlamps and flashlights. Wild.
    Traer S on Down Under Duckpin Bowling