Portsmouth, Rhode Island, USA
1819 - Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a post township, situated upon the northern section of Rhode-Island; bounded on the north by Mount Hope bay, on the east by the Secconnet or east passage, on the south and southwest by Middletown, and on the west by Narragansett bay.
The length of the township, from northeast to southwest, is about 8 miles, and it has a mean breadth of more than 2 miles, comprising about 17 square miles.
The surface is generally elevated and prospective, affording pleasant and interesting landscapes. The geological structure is similar to that of the rest of the island; the prevailing rocks being schistus or slate. The internal structure comprises extensive strata of mineral coal, which are supposed to be four miles in extent. Two pits have been opened, and considerable quantities have been raised. The quality of the coal is supposed to be improving, as the mine is extended; and it is believed, that it will eventually be a source of great profit, and of extensive public utility.
The soil is various in different sections of the island. There are some tracts of shistic gravel, and some of argillaceous loam. In general, it is very productive, and well adapted to grass and a grain culture.
The lands are mostly in a state of cultivation, the forests being very limited, and sustaining a high price. The leading objects of husbandry are the dairy business, and the raising of grain; of which, barley and Indian corn are the principal. The raising of sheep, which formerly received much attention, has for some years past been more neglected. The soil and climate are favourable for fruit, and the orchards are extensive and valuable.
From the maritime situation of this town, being surrounded by water upon almost every side, its fisheries are extensive and valuable, affording employment to considerable industry.
The navigation business is inconsiderable. There are, however, a few coasting vessels owned in the town.
Its mechanical and manufacturing interest, likewise, are not very important. There are 2 Woolen Factories, 1 Cotton Factory, 8 Grain Mills and 2 Clothiers' works.
There are, in the town, 4 Mercantile Stores, 2 Religious Societies and Churches, 7 Schools and 1 Social Library.
The population of the town, in 1810, was 1795; and there are about 250 Dwelling houses, 220 Electors, and 2 companies of Militia. This town sends four representatives to the General Assembly.
Prudence, and several other small islands, are attached to this town. Prudence Island is situated in Narragansett bay, opposite the northern section of Portsmouth. The island is about 6 miles in length, and has a mean breadth of about three-fourths of a mile, comprising about four square miles. The soil is excellent, affording abundant crops both of grass and grain. The land is principally owned in Providence. There are upon this island, about 17 families.
Portsmouth was one of the original towns contained in the charter of the State of Rhode-Island, granted by Charles II in 1663.
A Gazetteer of the States of Connecticut and Rhode-Island: Written with Care and Impartiality, from Original and Authentic Materials : Consisting of Two Parts ... : with an Accurate and Improved Map of Each State
Authors John Chauncey Pease, John Milton Niles
Publisher W.S. Marsh, 1819
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