Retired National Park Service Ranger John McNiff portrayed Roger Williams at the Arnolds Mills Community House in Cumberland, RI on September 26, 2024. Dressed as Williams, McNiff spoke about growing up in England, how those forces directed his development, and what it took to come to the “New World.” Click here for a 67-minute video of the presentation.

Charles Tramontana introduced Williams to a full house for the first of three “Quest for America’s Freedoms” sessions held at the Community House.

Born and raised in Rhode Island, McNiff earned a history degree from Rhode Island College, as well as a Master’s Degree in anthropology from SUNY at Binghamton in 1990.  In 1996 he began working with the National Park Service, and was stationed at Roger Williams National Memorial in 1997. He retired in February after 27 years of service.

According to Valley Breeze & Observer senior staff writer Jacquelyn Moorehead, McNiff has acted for years, appearing in several films, including Steven Spielberg’s “Amistad.” He has been a historical re-enactor since 1974. His extensive research into 17th century New England and English history has made him a respected authority on Williams.