Neutaconkanut Hill Park Joins National Register of Historic Places

The 85-acre park in Providence, Rhode Island is now officially recognized for its historic significance.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Neutaconkanut Hill Park in Providence, Rhode Island has been added to the National Register of Historic Places, the Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission announced. The 85-acre park, established in 1903, features the highest point in the city at 296 feet above sea level and includes woodlands, walking trails, historic infrastructure, and recreational areas.

Why it matters

The designation recognizes Neutaconkanut Hill Park's long history and importance to the local community. As one of Providence's oldest parks, it has served the Silver Lake and Olneyville neighborhoods for over a century and is beloved by residents. The national recognition helps to further protect and preserve this vital green space for future generations.

The details

Neutaconkanut Hill Park is home to a variety of historic and natural features, including the ruins of a family farm, Works Progress Administration-built infrastructure, the remnants of a toboggan slope, and an expansive field used for recreation. The park was established in 1903 and is managed through a partnership between the Providence Parks Department and the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy, which was founded in the 1970s.

  • Neutaconkanut Hill Park was established in 1903.
  • The Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy was founded in the 1970s.
  • The park was added to the National Register of Historic Places on February 12, 2026.

The players

Neutaconkanut Hill Park

An 85-acre park in Providence, Rhode Island that features the highest point in the city at 296 feet above sea level.

Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission

The state agency that announced Neutaconkanut Hill Park's addition to the National Register of Historic Places.

Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy

A community organization founded in the 1970s to manage the long-term care and preservation of Neutaconkanut Hill Park.

Brett Smiley

The Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island who expressed his excitement about the park's national recognition.

Robert McMahon

The former Providence Parks Superintendent and longtime champion of Neutaconkanut Hill Park.

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What they’re saying

“As one of the city's oldest parks, Neutaconkanut Hill Park has been beloved by our community for generations. Providence's parks and greenspaces are vital to the health and well-being of our community and recognitions like this help us to further protect and preserve these important spaces.”

— Brett Smiley, Mayor of Providence (WPRI.com)

“For more than 100 years, 'Neut,' as it is affectionately called, has served its Silver Lake and Olneyville neighborhoods well. Its placement in the National Register of Historic Places is a testimony to the vision and dedication of the late Elli Panichas, the founder of the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy.”

— Robert McMahon, Former Providence Parks Superintendent (WPRI.com)

“This designation is a lasting legacy for Providence and the many communities who have long loved and found belonging at Neutaconkanut Hill Park. The Hill is a vital community hub, and I am deeply grateful to Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy Founder Elli Panichas for her leadership, generosity and unwavering commitment to protecting and stewarding this special place for future generations.”

— Wendy Nilsson, Current Providence Parks Superintendent (WPRI.com)

What’s next

The Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy and Providence Parks Department will continue their partnership to maintain and preserve the historic park for the local community.

The takeaway

Neutaconkanut Hill Park's addition to the National Register of Historic Places is a testament to the enduring community value of Providence's public green spaces. This recognition will help ensure the park's natural and historic features are protected for generations to come.