Completed in 1788, it was the first mansion to be built in Providence and is named after its first owner, John Brown, a statesman, merchant, slave trader, and early benefactor of the University.

[2][3] The American president John Quincy Adams called it "the most magnificent and elegant private mansion that I have ever seen on this continent.

The concerts feature a variety of mostly local music talent, ranging from Big Band to Latin Jazz to folk, oldies, and more.

Four chimneys rise from the sides of the house, and its main entrance is in a center projecting section topped by a small triangular pediment.

The hall is particularly grand, with engaged columns supporting architectural busts and a two-stage stairwell with an ornate twisting banister.