Built in 1878, Providence City Hall remains one of our city’s most significant and celebrated historical buildings. Following a narrow escape from the wrecking ball in 1975, City Hall underwent extensive restoration, resulting in its listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

Some of the most important and memorable moments in the history of Providence have occurred here at City Hall. It was on the previous building’s very steps that Abraham Lincoln delivered a stirring speech on February 28, 1860. It was here at City Hall that President Teddy Roosevelt spoke on August 23, 1902, and it was here that then-Senator John F. Kennedy delivered a speech on November 7, 1960, just days away from his presidential election victory.

On November 14, 1998 the City of Providence celebrated the momentous occasion of the 120th anniversary of this remarkable civic landmark, and in 2000, nationally acclaimed architect Friedrich St. Florian designed outdoor plaques identifying the structure, enabling passing visitors to immediately recognize the building’s important function and its impressive place in history.