History of Charlestown, Rhode Island, USA

1819 - Charlestown
Charlestown is a post township, situated 40 miles southwest from Providence; bounded on the north by Charles river, which separates it from Richmond, on the east by South-Kingston, on the south by the Atlantic ocean, and on the west by Westerly.

The township is between six and seven miles square, and nearly in a square form, comprising an areas of about 43 square miles, including its waters, of which there are five considerable ponds, two salt, and three fresh water, all of which, it is estimated, contain about 7 square miles. These ponds are called Charlestown, Conaquaetogue, Posquissett, Watchaug and Cochumpaug. The first two are salt water, and the three latter fresh water ponds.

Between the two first mentioned ponds there are communications with the sea, which are occasionally closed by sand. The entrance into Conaquetogue pond is sometimes of sufficient depth to admit of vessels of from 15 to 20 tons; but that into Charlestown pond only admits of small open boats. In these... Read MORE...

1839 - Charlestown
Charlestown, Rhode Island
Washington county. Charlestown lies on the sea, opposite to Block Island. It has five large ponds, which cover an area of 7 square miles.—Charlestown and Conaquetogue ponds are salt water, and Posquissett, Watchaug and Cochumpaug are fresh water. These waters afford a great variety of fish. Near the sea, the land is arable, but the interior of the town is more fit for the growth of wood. This town contains the graves of the remnant of the tribe of the once powerful and dreaded Narraganset Indians. They possessed a considerable tract of land in this town, but owing to a dislike to agricultural pursuits, and by intermarriages with the whites and negroes, their race as a distinct people has long since become extinct. Charles river passes through the town and gives it mill privileges. Charlestown lies about 8 miles W.S.W. from South Kingston and 40 S.W. from Providence. Population, 1830, 1,284.
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 - Charlestown
Charlestown, a post-township of Washing ton cc. Rhode Island, on the Stonington and Providence railroad, 15 miles S. W. of Newport. Population 694.
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
CHARLESTOWN,, a township in Washington, co., Rhode Island, 45 m. SSW of Providence, watered by Charles river, and a branch of the Pawcatuck, Pop. 923.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859

1895 - Charlestown
Charlestown, a post-township of Washington co., R.I., is bounded on the S. by the Atlantic Ocean, and intersected by the Stonington & Providence Railroad. It has 5 churches. Pop. 1054, of whom about 100 are Narragansett Indians.
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
Charlestown, a post-township (town) of Washington co., R.I., is bounded on the S. by the Atlantic Ocean. Pop. in 1900, 975, in part Narragansett Indians.
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 and around Charlestown:
Charlestown Town Beach:

Spend a day relaxing on the beautiful sandy shores of Charlestown Town Beach. It's a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or taking a leisurely stroll along the coastline.

Ninigret Pond:

Explore Ninigret Pond, a large saltwater lagoon. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards to enjoy the peaceful waters, or simply relax and take in the scenic views.

Kettle Pond Visitor Center:

Visit the Kettle Pond Visitor Center for information on the local wildlife and ecosystems. It's a great educational stop to learn about the natural beauty of the area.

Burlingame State Park:

This state park offers camping, hiking, and fishing opportunities. It's an excellent place to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the outdoors.

Fantastic Umbrella Factory:

Explore the quirky Fantastic Umbrella Factory, a unique shopping village with eclectic shops, gardens, and a farm. It's a fun and offbeat experience.

East Beach:

If you're a fan of less crowded... Read MORE...