Rare Glimpse into Jamestown’s Past Businesses: New Exhibit at the Jamestown Museum Showcases Signs and Advertisements

The summer exhibit at the Jamestown Museum showcases signs and advertisements from businesses that once operated on Conanicut Island. The museum, located at 92 Narragansett Ave., will open for the season on Friday, May 24, to coincide with the opening of the exhibition titled “An Island Economy: Jamestown Businesses.”

Throughout Jamestown’s history, the types of products and services available have changed, as well as the methods used to inform the public about them. The exhibit features a variety of signs, both large outdoor signs like those from Godena’s Garage and Lyons Market, as well as smaller indoor and outdoor signs, and other forms of advertising media.

The curator, Rosemary Enright, mentioned that the inspiration for the exhibit came from a November “From the Collection” submission by Delia Klingbeil. This submission highlighted large signs for businesses in the town, sparking a discussion with Sue Maden, a member of the Jamestown Historical Society, about the significance of these businesses in the town’s history and growth.

The exhibit also includes a series of panels showcasing the history of Jamestown’s growth as seen through its businesses. Historic photographs are used to illustrate changes in various business areas, including agriculture and transportation.

The Jamestown Museum and its summer exhibit will be open from 1-4 p.m. on Fridays through Sundays until Columbus Day, as well as on federal holidays. Visit the museum to learn more about