“ Settled about 1791, Newport was incorporated in 1795 as a town, and in 1850 received a city charter. The government, under a charter of 1894, is administered by a bicameral council and by a mayor, elected every four years. The executive appoints fire, police, and water-works commissioners, and, with the consent of the board of aldermen, the city auditor and superintendent of public works. The council is selected from the wards, but elected at large, and appoints bridge commissioners. Other municipal officials and the board of education are chosen by popular vote. ”