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 is not accommodated with any navigable waters. Its western section is watered by Wood river and its branches, which intersect it in various directions. This stream affords some good sites for hydraulic works.
The cotton spinning business constitutes the principal manufacturing interest. There are 2 Cotton Factories, containing about 360 spindles each. There are one Woolen Factory, one Clothier's works, and ten Grain Mills.
The population of the town, in 1810, was 2254; and there are 296 Electors, 311 Dwelling-houses and 3 companies of Militia.
The amount of taxable property is $200,078.
There are one Religious Society and Church, 20 primary Schools and 3 Mercantile Stores.
Exeter was incorporated the 5th of December, 1743.
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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