(401) 781 1098
The Algonquin House
I
Our History:
A center where Native resilience and South Providence socio-economic revitalization intersect. We remember the legacy and sacrifices of generations that came before us, we protect this Native reclaimed space and open our doors to the Urban Native population of Providence and surrounding territories.
The Rhode Island Indian Council was incorporated in 1975, and operated on a second floor corner office at 444 Friendship Street, overlooking burned out houses, rusty cars and trash. This was a pivotal time for Native advocacy.
Previous leaders William Wilcox BigToe (Narragansett) and Garrison Parker Cornplanter (Rappahannock), shared the vision of a place where "modern Indians can live and work together, a community where Indians can study and retain their heritage, while learning skills they need to survive in the modern world." (congressional record, October 16, 1987)
The dream was carried by the incoming new Executive Director, Mr. Darrell Waldron in 1987. In the late 80's he had gained the support, resources and traction he needed to expand the vision. The opportunity came in acquiring the historic building formerly known as The Steere House, built in 1895 as an institution for aging men.
Through the advocacy efforts of the Native community, financial donations made by surrounding tribes, the city of Providence and the Steere family, the 2 acre, four-story, 65,000 sq ft building was donated to The Rhode Island Indian Council in 1995- and subsequently renamed The Algonquin House.
"Today represents survival, and all the people here today believe in opportunity, have pride in themselves, and this is something we hope to encourage in all our brothers and sisters...We are honored to donate to the Rhode Island Indian Council...we know their hearts and spirit are in the right place."
- (then Vice Chair of Mashantucket Pequot Kenny Reels, July 19th 1996)
Community Space & Office Rental
Iron River Singers, November 2018
The Algonquin House offers our first floor 'ballroom' for meetings, or training sessions during business hours to our tenant family. We regularly host space for local community workshops, partnerships, collaborations and community groups, past contributors include:
The Rhode Island Council on the Arts (RISCA)
Community Action Partnership of Providence County (CAAP)
Providence Youth Student Movement (PRYSM)
Tribal Youth Empowerment
Rhode Island Sports Union
International Gallery-Munir Studio
Consulate of the Dominican Republic
Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation
Office Space
Our building is a great place to participate in an incubator environment which encourages the development and success of the Providence community. It also creates a renewable resource for funding social services and economic development. The growth of your organization or business encourages the development of small businesses and job skills within the community, The Algonquin House will enhance the future of our urban neighborhood. We have 38,606 square feet of rentable space, the building is located within a federally designated Enterprise Community, offering it special consideration for federal and state grant opportunities.
The RIIC is happy to offer rooms on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th floors at Algonquin House, now available for immediate rental. In-lot and on-street parking, lobby areas, elevator, heat and electricity included.
Call for additional information, questions or schedule a tour!
Nanette (401) 781-1098 email: nthayer@rhodeislandindiancouncil.org
