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History of Rhode Island, USA
Journey back in time to Rhode Island, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Rhode Island, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Rhode Island
Rhode Island is the smallest state in size in the United States. It covers an area of 1,214 square miles. Its distances North to South are 48 miles and East to West 37 miles.
Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, established the first practical working model of Democracy after he was banished from Plymouth, Massachusetts because of his "extreme views" concerning freedom of speech and religion.
50states.com
"First used in a letter by Italian explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano, in which he compares an island near the mouth of Narragansett Bay (a bay on the north side of Rhode Island Sound) to the island of Rhodes in the Mediterranean. The explanation preferred by the state government is that Dutch explorer Adrian Block named the area Roodt Eylandt (“red island”) in reference to the red clay that lined the shore and the name was later anglicized under British rule." mentalfloss.com
Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, established the first practical working model of Democracy after he was banished from Plymouth, Massachusetts because of his "extreme views" concerning freedom of speech and religion.
50states.com
"First used in a letter by Italian explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano, in which he compares an island near the mouth of Narragansett Bay (a bay on the north side of Rhode Island Sound) to the island of Rhodes in the Mediterranean. The explanation preferred by the state government is that Dutch explorer Adrian Block named the area Roodt Eylandt (“red island”) in reference to the red clay that lined the shore and the name was later anglicized under British rule." mentalfloss.com
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VINTAGE RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Rhode Island, USA
Wikipedia
![Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fPlaces%2fDetails%2f2148&media=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fContent%2fancestorimages%2fus_ri_flag_7_27_1640.jpg&description=, Rhode Island, USA - Flag of Rhode Island
Adopted November 1, 1897
The present flag of the state of Rhode Island was formally adopted in 1897. As early as the 1640s, the anchor and "hope" were found on the Rhode Island Seal, and the seal's words and emblems were likely inspired by the biblical phrase "hope we have as an anchor of the soul," found in Hebrews, Verse 6:18-19. Rhode Island's earliest colonists were fleeing persecution in Massachusetts due to their religious beliefs.){kind=small}
Flag of Rhode Island
Adopted November 1, 1897
The present flag of the state of Rhode Island was formally adopted in 1897. As early as the 1640s, the anchor and "hope" were found on the Rhode Island Seal, and the seal's words and emblems were likely inspired by the biblical phrase "hope we have as an anchor of the soul," found in Hebrews, Verse 6:18-19. Rhode Island's earliest colonists were fleeing persecution in Massachusetts due to their religious beliefs.
Adopted November 1, 1897
The present flag of the state of Rhode Island was formally adopted in 1897. As early as the 1640s, the anchor and "hope" were found on the Rhode Island Seal, and the seal's words and emblems were likely inspired by the biblical phrase "hope we have as an anchor of the soul," found in Hebrews, Verse 6:18-19. Rhode Island's earliest colonists were fleeing persecution in Massachusetts due to their religious beliefs.
Rhode Island, USA
Postcard
Rhode Island, USA
Postcard
Journal Building. Providence, R. I.
Rhode Island, USA
Postcard
Ferry House and Opera House, from the Mall, Newport, R.I.
Rhode Island, USA
(IL) - Chicago Tribune, Chicago, Illinois
Rhode Island, USA
Postcard
Soldiers Monument, Main Street, Woonsocket, R. I.
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to RHODE ISLAND
ROCKY POINT, RI Amusement Park Mug – Vintage Rhode Island Postcard Coffee Cup
Take a nostalgic trip back to the iconic Rocky Point Amusement Park with this ceramic mug featuring four charming vintage postcards from Rhode Island's beloved seaside destination. Showcasing iconic scenes like "Getting Ready for a Clam Bake," the bustling "Dining Hall," and the lively "Promenade on the Midway," this mug brings the magic of Rocky Point to your daily coffee or tea ritual. Celebrate the golden days of Rocky Point every morning!
I Love RHODE ISLAND Mug – Clam Chowder, Coffee Milk & Johnny Cakes Ceramic Coffee Cup – Ocean State Food Lover Gift, 11oz & 15oz
Celebrate the flavors of the Ocean State with this Rhode Island-inspired ceramic mug! Featuring iconic local favorites—clam chowder, coffee milk, and Johnny cakes—plus the “I Love Rhode Island!” slogan, it’s perfect for locals, food lovers, and anyone who cherishes Rhode Island’s coastal charm.
RHODE ISLAND ROOTS - "I'm from Rhode Island!" Quahog Lover's Ceramic Mug
Embrace your Rhode Island roots with this charming and humorous ceramic mug! Perfect for sipping your favorite hot beverages, this mug features the witty caption: "I'm from Rhode Island! That explains a lot about my love for quahogs that I pronounce with confidence, even though I'm not sure what they are."
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Rhode Island: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Rhode Island through the years.
1637 - Anne Hutchison founded Portsmouth after being banished from Massachusetts for heresy
In 1637, Anne Hutchinson, a prominent Puritan dissident, was banished from the Massachusetts Bay Colony due to her outspoken views on religious doctrine and governance. Hutchinson, known for challenging the established clergy and advocating for a more individualistic interpretation of religious teachings, found herself at odds with the Puritan leadership. Following her banishment, Hutchinson, along with her followers, settled on Aquidneck Island in present-day Rhode Island, where they established the settlement of Portsmouth.
Portsmouth, founded by Hutchinson and her supporters, became one of the earliest examples of religious tolerance and democratic governance in the American colonies. It operated under a pioneering agreement known as the Portsmouth Compact, which established principles of civil liberties and the separation of church and state.
Portsmouth, founded by Hutchinson and her supporters, became one of the earliest examples of religious tolerance and democratic governance in the American colonies. It operated under a pioneering agreement known as the Portsmouth Compact, which established principles of civil liberties and the separation of church and state.
1643 - Roger Williams received parliamentary patent for Providence, Portsmouth, Newport colony, confirmed fellow settlers' land claims
In 1643, Roger Williams, a notable advocate for religious freedom and the founder of Rhode Island, received a parliamentary patent that formalized the establishment of several settlements in the area. This patent specifically recognized Providence, Portsmouth, and Newport as colonial entities under his leadership. Roger Williams, originally banished from Massachusetts Bay Colony due to his controversial beliefs regarding the separation of church and state and his interactions with Native Americans, found refuge among like-minded settlers who shared his ideals of religious tolerance and individual liberty.
The parliamentary patent not only legitimized these settlements but also confirmed the land claims of Williams and his fellow settlers, ensuring their rights to establish and govern their communities autonomously. This event marked a significant milestone in the early colonial history of what would become Rhode Island, setting the stage for the colony's unique development as a...
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The parliamentary patent not only legitimized these settlements but also confirmed the land claims of Williams and his fellow settlers, ensuring their rights to establish and govern their communities autonomously. This event marked a significant milestone in the early colonial history of what would become Rhode Island, setting the stage for the colony's unique development as a...
Read more about Roger WILLIAMS
1647 - Rhode Island united with Providence, formed single government
1675-76 - King Philip's War between Narragansetts Indians and colonists; several thousand Indians died, six hundred colonists died, much property damage
King Philip's War, spanning from 1675 to 1676, was a pivotal conflict in early American history, primarily fought between the Narragansett Indians and English colonists in New England. Named after Metacom, also known as King Philip, the Wampanoag leader who unified various tribes against encroaching settlers, the war erupted due to simmering tensions over land, resources, and autonomy. The conflict resulted in a devastating toll on both sides: several thousand Native Americans perished, and around 600 colonists lost their lives, marking it as one of the deadliest wars in proportion to the population at that time in North America.
The war saw brutal skirmishes and massacres, with both Native villages and English settlements attacked and razed. The colonists, backed by their military superiority and alliances with some Native tribes, eventually gained the upper hand. The outcome was a significant loss for Native American tribes, leading to the further encroachment of English...
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The war saw brutal skirmishes and massacres, with both Native villages and English settlements attacked and razed. The colonists, backed by their military superiority and alliances with some Native tribes, eventually gained the upper hand. The outcome was a significant loss for Native American tribes, leading to the further encroachment of English...
1761 - October 23 - A hurricane struck southeastern New England. It was the most violent in thirty years. Thousands of trees blocked roads in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
1774 - Rhode Island abolishes slavery
1776 - Rhode Island first American colony to declare independence from Britain
In 1776, Rhode Island made a significant mark in American history by becoming the first colony to declare independence from Britain. This bold move occurred amidst the escalating tensions between the American colonies and the British Crown, fueled by issues such as taxation without representation and increasing restrictions on colonial autonomy. Rhode Island, known for its independent spirit and strong maritime economy, took a decisive step towards self-governance and freedom.
The declaration of independence by Rhode Island set a precedent and inspired other colonies to follow suit in declaring their own independence, culminating in the United States' formal Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Rhode Island's action underscored the growing unity and resolve among the American colonies to pursue independence from British rule, laying the groundwork for the Revolutionary War and the birth of the United States as a sovereign nation.
The declaration of independence by Rhode Island set a precedent and inspired other colonies to follow suit in declaring their own independence, culminating in the United States' formal Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Rhode Island's action underscored the growing unity and resolve among the American colonies to pursue independence from British rule, laying the groundwork for the Revolutionary War and the birth of the United States as a sovereign nation.
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1778 - August 12 - A Rhode Island hurricane prevented an impending British-French sea battle, and caused extensive damage over southeast New England.
1812 - Rhode Island refused participation in the War of 1812
In two or three paragraphs, briefly describe this historical event: 1812 - Rhode Island refused participation in the War of 1812
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In 1812, Rhode Island's decision to refuse participation in the War of 1812 stemmed from a complex mix of economic interests, political alignments, and regional considerations. The state's economy heavily relied on maritime trade, which faced significant disruptions during times of war. Rhode Island's leaders, many of whom were aligned with the Federalist Party, viewed the conflict as potentially damaging to their commercial interests and preferred neutrality to avoid economic strain and potential military conscription.
Politically, Rhode Island had a history of independent thought and action, often resisting federal mandates it deemed unfavorable. The state's stance on the war reflected broader sentiments of skepticism toward centralized federal authority and a commitment to preserving its autonomy. This decision placed Rhode...
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501/ 501
ChatGPT
In 1812, Rhode Island's decision to refuse participation in the War of 1812 stemmed from a complex mix of economic interests, political alignments, and regional considerations. The state's economy heavily relied on maritime trade, which faced significant disruptions during times of war. Rhode Island's leaders, many of whom were aligned with the Federalist Party, viewed the conflict as potentially damaging to their commercial interests and preferred neutrality to avoid economic strain and potential military conscription.
Politically, Rhode Island had a history of independent thought and action, often resisting federal mandates it deemed unfavorable. The state's stance on the war reflected broader sentiments of skepticism toward centralized federal authority and a commitment to preserving its autonomy. This decision placed Rhode...
1839 - Rhode Island
RHODE ISLAND
The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations was settled by Roger Williams in 1636, a man remarkable for his benevolence, justice, and pacific policy. It derived its name from that of a beautiful island at the mouth of Narraganset bay. Its government commenced under the charter of Charles II, in 1663, which charter is the present Constitution of the State. It became a member of the Union May 29th, 1790.
This state annually appropriates $10,000, to be divided among the towns for the support of free schools.
Rhode Island comprises five counties: Providence, Newport, Bristol, Kent and Washington. It is bounded N. and E. by the state of Massachusetts, S. by the Atlantic ocean, and W. by the state of Connecticut. It lies between 41° and 42°N. lat., and between 71° and 72°W. long.; and comprises an area of 1350 square miles. Population, 1755, 40,414; 1774, 59,678; 1790, 68,825; 1800, 69,122; 1810, 75,188; 1820, 83,059; 1830, 97,196. Population to square a mile,...
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The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations was settled by Roger Williams in 1636, a man remarkable for his benevolence, justice, and pacific policy. It derived its name from that of a beautiful island at the mouth of Narraganset bay. Its government commenced under the charter of Charles II, in 1663, which charter is the present Constitution of the State. It became a member of the Union May 29th, 1790.
This state annually appropriates $10,000, to be divided among the towns for the support of free schools.
Rhode Island comprises five counties: Providence, Newport, Bristol, Kent and Washington. It is bounded N. and E. by the state of Massachusetts, S. by the Atlantic ocean, and W. by the state of Connecticut. It lies between 41° and 42°N. lat., and between 71° and 72°W. long.; and comprises an area of 1350 square miles. Population, 1755, 40,414; 1774, 59,678; 1790, 68,825; 1800, 69,122; 1810, 75,188; 1820, 83,059; 1830, 97,196. Population to square a mile,...
1861-65 - 25,236 Rhode Islanders fought in Civil War; 1,685 died
1895 - Rhode Island
Rhode Island, röd i’land, one of the New England States, and one of the original thirteen members of the Amer ican Union, bounded on the N. and E. by Massachusetts, S. by the Atlantic, and W. by Connecticut. Its coast-line is deeply indented by Narragansett Bay, which receives the estuaries of the Taunton and Providence Rivers. Within the bay lie Aquidneck or Rhode Island (which gives name to the state), Canonicut, Prudence, Patience, Hope, Perry, Dutch, and other islands; and off the coast lies Block Island, which constitutes the town of New Shorehain. The total area of the state is 1250 square miles, of which 1085 square miles constitutes the land and 165 the water area; and it is therefore the smallest state in the Union...
The principal cities and towns are Providence, one of the state capitals, and the second city in size in New England (pop. in 1890, 132,146), Pawtucket (27,663), Newport, the other state capital (19,457), and Woonsocket (20,830). The other leading places are...
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The principal cities and towns are Providence, one of the state capitals, and the second city in size in New England (pop. in 1890, 132,146), Pawtucket (27,663), Newport, the other state capital (19,457), and Woonsocket (20,830). The other leading places are...
1938 - Hurricane killed about 600, caused signifcant damages
A great hurricane smashed into Long Island and bisected New England causing a massive forest blow down and widespread flooding. Winds gusted to 186 mph at Blue Hill MA, and a storm surge of nearly thirty feet caused extensive flooding along the coast of Rhode Island. The hurricane killed 600 persons and caused 500 million dollars damage. The hurricane, which lasted twelve days, destroyed 275 million trees. Hardest hit were Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Long Island NY. The ""Long Island Express"" produced gargantuan waves with its 150 mph winds, waves which smashed against the New England shore with such force that earthquake-recording machines on the Pacific coast clearly showed the shock of each wave.
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in the Ocean State:
1. Newport
Explore the stunning Newport Mansions, including The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff, which showcase Gilded Age architecture.
Take a stroll along Cliff Walk, a scenic path that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the mansions.
Visit Fort Adams State Park, a historic military fort with panoramic views and events like the Newport Jazz Festival.
2. Providence
Discover the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum, home to an extensive collection of art and design pieces.
Enjoy WaterFire, a unique art installation featuring bonfires on the Providence River, accompanied by music and entertainment.
Walk around Federal Hill, the city's Little Italy, and savor delicious Italian cuisine.
3. Block Island
Take a ferry from the mainland to Block Island for a day of relaxation on beautiful beaches and scenic hikes.
Explore Mohegan Bluffs for stunning cliffside views and visit the iconic Southeast Lighthouse.
Rent a bike or moped to...
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Explore the stunning Newport Mansions, including The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff, which showcase Gilded Age architecture.
Take a stroll along Cliff Walk, a scenic path that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the mansions.
Visit Fort Adams State Park, a historic military fort with panoramic views and events like the Newport Jazz Festival.
2. Providence
Discover the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum, home to an extensive collection of art and design pieces.
Enjoy WaterFire, a unique art installation featuring bonfires on the Providence River, accompanied by music and entertainment.
Walk around Federal Hill, the city's Little Italy, and savor delicious Italian cuisine.
3. Block Island
Take a ferry from the mainland to Block Island for a day of relaxation on beautiful beaches and scenic hikes.
Explore Mohegan Bluffs for stunning cliffside views and visit the iconic Southeast Lighthouse.
Rent a bike or moped to...
GENEALOGY IN RHODE ISLAND
Discover YOUR Roots: Rhode Island Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Rhode Island through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Rhode Island, USA
We currently have information about 715 ancestors who were born or died in Rhode Island.
View ancestors by year of birthMARRIAGES
Ancestors Who Were Married in Rhode Island, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Rhode Island.
View married ancestorsRESEARCH RESOURCES
Genealogy Resources and General Items of Interest for Rhode Island
The history of the state of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations,
Thomas Williams Bicknell, LL.D., Volume III, New York Historical Society, Inc. 1920
Thomas Williams Bicknell, LL.D., Volume III, New York Historical Society, Inc. 1920
1935 Rhode Island State Census
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
1915 Rhode Island State Census
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
1925 Rhode Island State Census
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
1885 Rhode Island State Census
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
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Updated: 6/28/2024 8:21:10 AM
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