FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[CHARLESTOWN, RI] – [Date: July 21, 2025] – The Niantic Village Project (NVP) today unveiled its vision to preserve and restore the land, culture, and history of the Niantic Tribe and other Indigenous peoples through an interactive augmented reality (AR) glamping experience. This initiative blends education, entertainment, and community-led eco-housing to promote Indigenous heritage and address housing insecurity.

Central to the project is the Joseph Jeffrey House, built circa 1730 on former Narragansett land and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located on a 9.5-acre wooded property, it was granted to Joseph Jeffrey, a Niantic member of the Narragansett Tribal Council.

“The Niantic Village Project is a commitment to restorative justice,” said Melanie Jeffrey, Executive Director. “Through immersive AR, we’re reconnecting visitors with Niantic history while empowering Indigenous women through sustainable housing.”

Key components include:

AR Glamping: Visitors explore a recreated tribal village via app-based AR.

Eco-Housing: Community-built, zero-carbon Superadobe homes for BIPOC women 50+.

Cultural Revival: Foraging, acorn flour production, and kayak rentals on Saw Mill Pond.

Replicable Model: Future villages planned, starting with Mexico.

NVP combines restorative justice, gaming, and glamping to support Indigenous sovereignty and cultural preservation.