History of Exeter, Rhode Island, USA

1819 - Exeter
Exeter is an agricultural township, situated 24 miles southwest of Providence; bounded on the north by West-Greenwich, on the east by North-Kingston, on the south by South-Kingston, Richmond and Hopkinton, and on the west by the State of Connecticut.

This township comprises extensive territorial limits, having an average length of more than 12 miles, and a mean breadth of more than 5 miles, comprising an area of about 66 square miles.

The surface, soil and geological features of this township correspond with this district generally. The rocks are primitive, the soil a gravelly loam, and the ace of the country uneven, exhibiting a diversity of hill and dale.

The natural and agricultural productions are also such as are common to this region. The various objects of the dairy business, and the cultivation of Indian corn, rye and oats constitute the principal agricultural interests.

The contemplated road from Providence to Pawcatuck will lead through this town.

This town... Read MORE...

1839 - Exeter
Exeter, Rhode Island
Washington county. This is an agricultural and manufacturing town, situated 24 miles S.W. from Providence, and from its centre about 10 miles N.W. from South Kingston. The town is very large, being 12 by 5 miles. The surface is much diversified by hills and valleys; the soil is a gravelly loam and very productive of all the varieties common to the climate. The products of the dairy are considerable.—Branches of Wood river give this town a good water power, which is well improved by cotton mills and other manufactories. Exeter was incorporated in 1743. Population, 1830, 2,383.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839

1854 - Exeter
Exeter, a post-township of Washington county, Rhode Island, 25 miles 8. S. W. from Providence, has one bank. Pop. 1634.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1859
EXETER, a township of Washington co., in the state of Rhode island, 24 m. SW of Providence, drained by Wood river and its branches. It has a hilly surface. Its soil consists of a fertile gravelly loam. Pop. 1,776.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859

1895 - Exeter
Exeter, a post-township of Washington co., R.I., about 22 miles S.S.W. of Providence. It has 3 churches, grist-, saw-, and shingle-mills, and manufactures of hay-racks and lumber, &c. It is traversed by the Stonington & Providence Railroad. Pop. 964.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1916
Exeter, a post-township (town) of Washington co., R.I., about 22 miles SSW. of Providence. Pop. in 1900, 841.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Exeter:
Yawgoo Valley Ski Area & Water Park:

Depending on the season, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and even a water park in the warmer months. It's a versatile spot for outdoor fun.

Nicholas Farm State Management Area:

If you're into hiking, bird watching, or just enjoying nature, Nicholas Farm State Management Area is a great choice. The trails offer a peaceful escape and a chance to appreciate the local flora and fauna.

Tomaquag Museum:

Explore the rich history and culture of the Narragansett Tribe at the Tomaquag Museum. It's an excellent place to learn about the indigenous people of Rhode Island.

Escoheag Trail System:

Mountain biking enthusiasts will love the Escoheag Trail System. With various trails catering to different skill levels, it's a fantastic place to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Exeter Country Club:

Golfers can tee off at the Exeter Country Club, a well-maintained golf course surrounded by picturesque landscapes. ... Read MORE...