How an exclusive Rhode Island beach club became embroiled in a political controversy

Bailey's Beach Club in Newport is denying allegations its membership lacks racial diversity.


A private beach club on the serene shores of Newport, Rhode Island, is now the backdrop of a noisy political controversy over racism and exclusivity that also involves one of its prolific affiliates.

Public attention — and scrutiny — turned to Bailey’s Beach Club this week following comments made by U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, whose family has long been members of the elite club.

What happened

Nestled at the southern end of the mansion-lined Bellevue Avenue, Bailey’s, formally known as the Spouting Rock Beach Association, dates to the Gilded Age, when wealthy industry titans and socialites flocked to their summer homes in the seaside city.

Whitehouse, a staunch Democrat, has faced criticism over his involvement with the institution for years.

GoLocalProv approached Whitehouse in 2017 about why he was still a member at what the outlet described as an “all-white” club.

Read more: https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2021/06/24/baileys-beach-club-sheldon-whitehouse-rhode-island/