The Norman Bird Sanctuary has long been known to Rhode Islanders as one of our state's treasures -- with its open fields, quiet woodland trails, a spectacular view of the Newport coast from Hanging Rock, abundant wildlife, and fun programs that draw folks of all ages into the outdoors.

Today, the Sanctuary announced that it is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The honor will hopefully boost the efforts now under way to restore an 18th century farmhouse on the property and use it as a nature retreat center, with environmental education programming for adults and families. This would be a great new assett for all Rhode Islanders.

Congrats to NBS! For more info, click on "More...." To visit the NBS Web site, click here. The Sanctuary's annual Harvest Fair is coming up soon, Oct. 4 and 5, and that's a great opportunity to explore the place if you are not familiar with it.

The National Register of Historic Places Lists Norman Bird Sanctuary

- Farmhouse to be Rehabilitated as a Nature Retreat Center -

MIDDLETOWN, RI – September 23, 2008 – The Norman Bird Sanctuary, a 300+ acre wildlife refuge located at 583 Third Beach Road, Middletown, RI, is excited to announce that the property is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Once known as Paradise Farm, the gem of the Norman Bird Sanctuary is an 18^th century farmhouse, which overlooks rolling fields and Rhode Island Sound. It was once the summer residence of Mabel Norman Cerio who opened the land to nature lovers, allowing them to explore, discover and observe the beauty of the property.

The Norman Bird Sanctuary was established in 1949 at the bequest of Mabel and the organization’s mission, under the charge of her will, was to maintain Paradise Farm “for the propagation, preservation and protection of birds, and where birds and bird life may be observed, studied, taught, and enjoyed by lovers of nature and by the public generally so interested in a spirit of humanity and mercy.” This vision is what established the Norman Bird Sanctuary as an important resource in New England and ignited the tradition of education. The Norman Bird Sanctuary and the setting of Paradise Farm provide one of the oldest intact 18^th century farms in the United States.

Currently, the Norman Bird Sanctuary is raising funds to rehabilitate the Farmhouse into a nature retreat center that supports expanded environmental education programming for adults and families. This project will embrace the history and diversity of Mabel’s land to create a unique venue for ecotourism programs, while keeping with her vision.

“Paradise Farm is a symbol of what can rise from foresight and a commitment,” said Rob Cardeiro, Executive Director, Norman Bird Sanctuary. “It is an honor to be recognized by the National Register and we hope it will further the mission of the Norman Bird Sanctuary to a larger audience.”

The National Register's standards for evaluating the significance of properties were developed to recognize the accomplishments of people who have made a significant contribution to the United States’ history and heritage. The criteria are designed to guide State and local governments, Federal agencies, and others in evaluating potential entries in the National Register.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES

The National Register of Historic Places is the Nation's official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation. Authorized under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Register is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect our historic and archeological resources. Properties listed in the Register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. The National Register is administered by the National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of the Interior.

ABOUT NORMAN BIRD SANCTUARY

Established under the will of Mabel Norman Cerio in 1949, the Norman Bird Sanctuary constitutes the largest area of preserved open space in Newport County, RI. A wildlife refuge encompassing over 300 acres and 7 miles of trails that wind through a diversity of habitats. Nearly 30 acres are maintained as hay fields. Woodlands are the most prominent plant community and four ridges provide spectacular views of the surrounding ocean and ponds. As a leader in environmental education the Norman Bird Sanctuary provides extensive science programming for schools, community groups, adults and families and teaches more than 6,000 people every year. For more information, visit: www.normanbirdsanctuary.org or call: (401) 846-2577.

-- Norman Bird Sanctuary news release