Patrick Conley’s interest in becoming the first Historian Laureate of Rhode Island prompted him to solicit letters of recommendation addressed to the Secretary of State (the appointing authority) relative to his qualifications and suitability for that newly-created post.
Sixty-eight scholars were requested to compose letters of support, and sixty-five did so. Some of these historians and cultural leaders were of national stature and others were heavily involved in the study or teaching of Rhode Island history.
Excerpts from selected letters follow with links to the complete letters of endorsement.
Read or download all the letters in pdf format: