Jane Pickens was more than a performer. She was a singer, pianist, artist, author, civic leader, and one of Newport's most recognizable cultural figures. Her life connected music, art, philanthropy, and community service in ways that continue to inspire today.

Through the Jane Pickens Legacy Project, Historic Music of Newport is working to create a comprehensive archive dedicated to preserving and sharing her remarkable story. Our goal is to gather, digitize, organize, and make accessible the photographs, recordings, letters, documents, programs, and historical materials that tell the story of her life and contributions.

Many of these materials exist only in fragile formats. Recordings deteriorate. Photographs fade. Personal papers are often lost when they are not preserved and cataloged. Once these pieces of history disappear, they cannot be replaced.

Your support will help us:

Preserve historic recordings and performances
Digitize photographs, documents, and memorabilia
Catalog and organize archival materials
Conduct historical research and oral history interviews
Create educational resources for students, researchers, and the public
Share Jane Pickens' story through exhibits, presentations, publications, and online access

This project is about more than one individual. It is about preserving an important chapter in Newport's cultural history and ensuring that future generations can learn from the life of a woman whose talents and generosity touched countless people.

Every contribution, large or small, helps safeguard these stories for the future. Together, we can build a lasting archive that celebrates Jane Pickens' extraordinary legacy and makes it available to everyone who wishes to explore, study, and be inspired by her life and work.

Join us in preserving a life in music for future generations. Make your gift today and help ensure that Jane Pickens' legacy continues to be heard, seen, and remembered.

The Jane Pickens Legacy Project

Preserving a Life of Music for Future Generations