Day 699 The Great Elephant Migration

 

The Great Elephant Migration exhibit in Newport was every bit as spectacular as I knew it would be! The heard can be found on several lawns along the cliff walk and each of the 100 wooden sculptures is an impressive work of art. I wasn't sure how busy it would be, hoping the rainy morning would keep a few folks home, forgetting that a summer day in Newport, rain or shine is always packed with traffic, tourists and more tourists. Tim and I found a parking spot, our first little miracle then walked along the cliff walk too see the Elephants in front of Salve Regina University and further on to the lawn of the Breakers. Stunning locations for the magnificent display. The traveling exhibit is meant to inspire us to share space as well as raise money for conservation and protection of our beautiful wild animals and will visit states throughout the US. I'm thrilled to have this amazing display right here in my own backyard! After taking in our fill of the Elephant exhibit Tim and I stopped in to the Newport Elks, in an attempt to avoid the mobs of tourists. We made fast friends with a few couples, had a delicious dinner and didn't break the bank as Newport pricing can easily do! We had set out for the afternoon with every intention of playing tourist, but had to tap out when faced with the crowds. RI may be a small state but we sure do draw visitors in, can't blame them, my beautiful state shouldn't be missed. Walking along the cliff walk It's easy to understand why the wealthy folks called it home for the summer season, building the most incredible mansions along the shoreline. Still yet to visit are the elephants at Rough Point, saving that for another day. Neither Tim or my friend knew what I was talking about when I mentioned Rough Point, not familiar with Doris Duke, the billionaire tobacco heiress and the legacy she left behind. She was quite the lady, philanthropist, scandalous, eccentric and always fashion forward! Her home, now open to the public, has an original Renoir in her bedroom and a display of her amazing wardrobe...worth seeing! She's worth reading about, amazing lady and was known to drive around Newport in an old Toyota, blending in with the locals. She was the topic of great scandal when she "accidentally" ran over one of her employees that wanted to quit and rumor had was more than just an employee. I'm not sure why Hollywood hasn't made a movie about her life yet.... I'm waiting! Newport has her to thank for founding the Newport Restoration Foundation, saving and restoring countless historic homes throughout the city.  If she were alive today, there's no doubt she would be thrilled to see the elephant exhibit on her lawn, happy to open her gate for the heard (without running anyone over). The elephants will be in Newport through the first week of September, I'm already planning another visit!