The Armenians are an ancient people whose ancestral homeland was thought to be where the first humans were created in Paradise by the Lord. This land encompasses Mount Ararat where a new generation started to spread worldwide after the Biblical deluge. Thousands of years later, the Armenians came to the new world looking for a better life, security and prosperity.

The history of the Armenian community of Rhode Island is a history about migration, adaptation, survival and success. This demonstrates a unique episode of our history in our new homeland and realization of the American dream by Armenians. At the same time, the stories of individuals and communities show devotion, contribution and service to America.

Considered to be one of the oldest American-Armenian communities, Rhode Island Armenians brought new values and culture, different from the mainstream model, to the New England multi-ethnic mosaic. Life in America was not an easy one and Armenian immigrants faced all kinds of difficulties including bigotry, poverty and obstacles while planting their roots from New England to California.

America embraced its new children, whose experience generation after generation became proof of inspiration and pride.

From 1880s, Rhode Island hosted hundreds of Armenians who after a long journey from the mountains of Armenia finally found safe haven and new chances in the Providence harbor. Escaping from tyranny and mistreatment, they were inspired to start a new life, looking for the opportunities of religious freedom and prosperity which the American homeland gave them.