Oh the Ocean House....

What stood on the bluffs over East Beach in toney Watch Hill, RI with glorious views of the Connecticut Coast, Block Island Sound and Fisher's Island Sound is now an empty lot waiting to be rebuilt.

As a teen I worked in Watch Hill, protecting the beach from the tourists so that they could be enjoyed by the owners of the fantastic 1890s cottages that dot the bluffside of Watch Hill. After a long day being attacked by birds and locals who hated this regulation we would head to the bar at the Ocean House. When entering the floors would crackle and crickle, the building smelled as though it was washed with a dirt rag and signs mentioned that some rooms and the upper floor were closed. The bar was in the basement and it looked like a phrat party but the auora of the gilded age filled the atmosphere. Dining and drinking where so many others of high society once did... wow... it made the old smell evaporate.

Now the long waited rebirth of the historic Ocean House is going forward. While saddened by the necessity to dismantle the old building, to rebuild to the same style was a bonus to the eyes of any preservationist. What was planned was to save what could be saved and move forward with a glorious new building that would offer 21st century comfort with a 19th century look. Denied were proposals to build luxury homes on the property and thankfully so... there are enough and more coming..no worry about that. Anyone will be able to enjoy a coffee or tea, or drink of your choice at the new restaurant. I for one look forward to seeing the old lady rise again!

Artist Rendering of the New Ocean House