My First Pocket Guide to Rhode Island

Rhode Island Basics Rhode Island Geography Rhode Island History Rhode Island People Rhode Island Places Rhode Island Nature Rhode Island Miscellany

by Carole Marsh

M My y F Fiir rs st t P Po oc ck ke et t G Gu uiid de e

B By y C Ca ar ro olle e M Ma ar rs sh h

The Carole Marsh Bob Longmeyer Chad Beard Cecil Anderson Steven Saint-Laurent Sheri Kearney

Jill Sanders Kathy Zimmer Terry Briggs Pat Newman Billie Walburn Jackie Clayton

Pam Dufresne Cranston Davenport Lisa Stanley Antoinette Miller Victoria DeJoy Al Fortunatti

Published by GALLOPADE INTERNATIONAL

www.rhodeislandexperience.com 800-536-2GET • www.gallopade.com ©2001 Carole Marsh • First Edition • All Rights Reserved. ©2011 Ebook Edition Character Illustrations by Lucyna A. M. Green. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher. The Rhode Island Experience logo is a trademark of Carole Marsh and Gallopade International, Inc. A free catalog of The Rhode Island Experience Products is available by calling 800-536-2GET, or by visiting our website at www.rhodeislandexperience.com.

Gallopade is proud to be a member of these educational organizations and associations:

Other Rhode Island Experience Products • The Rhode Island Experience! • The BIG Rhode Island Reproducible Activity Book • The Rhode Island Coloring Book • My First Book About Rhode Island! • Rhode Island “Jography”: A Fun Run Through Our State • Rhode Island Jeopardy!: Answers and Questions About Our State • The Rhode Island Experience! Sticker Pack • The Rhode Island Experience! Poster/Map • Discover Rhode Island CD-ROM • Rhode Island “Geo” Bingo Game • Rhode Island “Histo” Bingo Game

A Word From the Author... (okay, a few words)... Hi! Here’s your own handy pocket guide about the great state of Rhode Island! It really will fit in a pocket—I tested it. And it really will be useful when you want to know a fact you forgot, to bone up for a test, or when your teacher says, “I wonder . . .” and you have the answer— instantly! Wow, I’m impressed! Get smart, have fun!

Carole Marsh

Rhode Island Basics explores your state’s symbols and their special meanings! Rhode Island Geography digs up the what’s where in your state! Rhode Island History is like traveling through time to some of your state’s great moments! Rhode Island People introduces you to famous personalities and your next-door neighbors! Rhode Island Places shows you where you might enjoy your next family vacation! Rhode Island Nature - no preservatives here, just what Mother Nature gave to Rhode Island! All the real fun stuff that we just HAD to save for its own section!

Rhode Island Basics Rhode Island Geography Rhode Island History Rhode Island People Rhode Island Places Rhode Island Nature Rhode Island Miscellany

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State Name

Who Named You? Rhode Island’s official state name is...

State Name

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations Word Definition

OFFICIAL: appointed, authorized, or approved by a government or organization

Rhode Island is now on a statecommemorative quarter minted in January 2001. Look for it in cash registers everywhere!

4

Statehood: May 29, 1790 Rhode Island was the 13th state to join the Union Coccinella noemnotata is my name (that’s Latin for ladybug)! What’s YOURS?

State Name Origin

W hat’s In A

Name ?

State Name Origin

The exact origin of Rhode Island’s name is unknown. One idea is that Giovanni da Verrazzano found present-day Block Island in 1524 and compared it to the Greek Island of Rhodes. Another theory is that it was named Roode Eylandt (red island) by Dutch explorer Adriaen Block after its red clay.

Rhode Island became the official name of the colony in 1663. Many of Rhode Island’s city names, such as Providence and Newport, reflect its English heritage.

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State Nicknames

WHO Are You Calling Names?

Little Rhody

State Nicknames

Rhode Island is not the only name by which our state is recognized. Like many other states, Rhode Island has some nicknames, official or unofficial!

Th

ce a n S t a t e O e

llest State a m T he S

Rhode Island is called the Ocean State because so much of its land lies along the Atlantic Ocean and its bays.

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It’s the Biggest Little State in the Union!

State Capital/Capitol

State Capital:

Providence

Established 1664

State Capital/ Capitol

Capital Since 1900 Roger Williams settled in Providence around 1636, near a freshwater spring. He named the place Providence and declared it as a haven for people seeking religious freedom. Three other settlements followed, and in 1644, Williams obtained a charter from the English Parliament for the “Providence Plantations in Narragansett Bay.” For a long time, the government of Rhode Island shifted between two capitals, Newport The capitol was completed in 1904. and Providence. In 1900, Providence Its unsupported became the official capital. white marble dome is the secondlargest in the world. The largest is the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Word Definition

CAPITAL: a town or city that is the official seat of government CAPITOL: the building in which the government officials meet

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State Government

Who’s in Charge Here? Rhode Island’s LEGISLATIVE

GOVERNMENT

has three branches:

EXECUTIVE

JUDICIAL

A governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, general treasurer, and 8 directors of state departments

Supreme Court (5 members), Superior Court, District Court, Family Court

State Government

Two Houses: The Senate (50 members), House of Representatives (100 members)

The number of legislators is determined by population, which is counted every ten years; the When you are numbers 18 and register above are according to Rhode Island certain to laws, you can change as Rhode vote! So please do! Your vote Island grows and counts! prospers! 8

State Flag

State Flag

✮

Rhode Island’s current state flag was adopted in 1897. It features a white background with a golden anchor in the center. A blue ribbon underneath bears the word “HOPE.” Thirteen gold stars encircle the anchor and the ribbon. As you travel throughout Rhode Island, count the times you see the Rhode Island flag! Look for it on government vehicles, too!

✮✮ ✮

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State Seal & Motto

State Seal

The state seal of Rhode Island features a golden anchor with the word “HOPE” inscribed above it. The border around the anchor says, “Seal State Seal of the State of Rhode & Motto Island and Providence Plantations 1636.” The year commemorates Roger Williams’ original settlement.

Word Definition

?

MOTTO: a sentence, phrase, or word expressing the spirit or purpose of an organization or group

State Motto Rhode Island’s state motto is...

Rhode Island was a place of hope for Roger Williams and his followers to find religious freedom of expression.

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HOPE

It means “wanting to believe.” Despite economic and social problems, Rhode Island’s residents believe in a better future. Road and bridge improvements have aided transportation. A massive revitalization program has brought thousands of historic buildings back to their original beauty. Coastal and river cleanups, plus a convention center and mall in Providence have helped to revitalize the state.

State Bird

Birds of a Feather Rhode Island’s official state bird is the Rhode Island red chicken. This breed, which was developed in Little Compton, is known for producing quality meat and eggs.

State Bird

The Red Hen Monument in Little Compton recognizes the Rhode Island Red chicken as the state bird.

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State Tree

RED MAPLE “W oo d

is orr

State Tree

eM

h at tree!”—Ge are t orge , sp n Pop ma

The red maple is known for its red and orange flowers which appear every spring. The leaves are reddish when they begin to open and gradually turn green. The tree grows 60-80 feet (18-24 meters) tall. 12

State Flower

Viola palmata “A lov e

as W n ever so illia m W wn.” ordsworth

VIOLET State Flower

hw art — e n lier flower o

Violets—(Viola palmata)—are wild flowers that grow in most parts of the world. They grow to be about 10 inches (25 centimeters) in height, with five-petaled flowers. The most common varieties are deep purple or blue.

...purple all the ground with vernal flowers... —John Milton

RIDDLE:

If the state flower got mixed up with the state bird, what would you have? ANSWER: purple chicken! That’s if it could happen!

Violets bloom in early spring and summer. They are among the world’s most popular flowers.

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State Soil, Rock & Mineral Narragansett is the unofficial state soil of Rhode Island. It can be found on about 12,000 acres (4,856 hectares) in the state. The soil is loamy and produces crops including corn, hay, and vegetables. Cumberlandite is a State Soil, very old type of rock Rock & that is found on Mineral both sides of Narragansett Bay. It is dark brown or black in color with white markings. It can attract magnets, just like a piece of iron! The state mineral, Bowenite (left) is a semiprecious stone similar to jade found in the northern part of Narragansett soil the state. It was named for is coarse and George Bowen, the loamy. The name geologist who discovered it. comes from the Narragansett community in the southern part of the state.

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Rock and Roll!

State Sports Yacht racing and tennis are the unofficial sports that come to mind when you think of Rhode Island. Newport was the site of America’s Cup races for more than 30 years, and still hosts the Newport to Bermuda Races, and several other prestigious events. Weekend sailing enthusiasts regularly hoist their sails for clubsponsored regattas. Tennis, played on grass courts, was an activity enjoyed by the wealthy summer residents of Newport during its Gilded Age. The first national lawn tennis championship was held in Newport in 1899. Today, the courts are still in use at the Newport Casino, International Tennis Hall of Fame.

State Sports

The Casino also features a croquet hall of fame. Serious croquet players compete here in regular tournaments and regional championships.

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State Drink

Coffee Milk This drink is milk flavored with coffee syrup, similar to chocolate milk, but with a coffee taste! Try a coffee “cabinet” State Drink (milkshake) for an authentic Rhode Island treat!

Order a cabinet to wash down your “stuffies” (stuffed quahogs), or a “grinder” (delistyle sandwich)!

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Coffee Cabinet Take 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream, 1 cup of coffee milk, and blend in a blender.

State Fruit

State Fruit

Rhode Island Greening Apple This apple was developed in Rhode Island around 1796. The flesh is crisp and colored yellow-green; it retains its sour flavor in cooking. Most of Rhode Island’s Smithfield is the state’s applegreening apple crop is picking capital, sold for commercial with many orchards located processing. in the vicinity.

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State Song

“Rhode Island It’s for Me” The state song was adopted in 1996 Words by Charlie Hall • Music By Maria Day

State Song

I’ve been to every state we have But I think that I’m inclined, To say that Rhody stole my heart; You can keep the forty-nine. Herring gulls that dot the sky Blue waves that paint the rocks Water rich with Neptune’s life The boats that line the docks. I see the lighthouse flickering To help the sailors see. There is a place for everyone Rhode Island it’s for me! Chorus: Rhode Island, oh Rhode Island, Surrounded by the sea Some people roam the earth for home Rhode Island it’s for me.

Rhode Island’s state march is “Rhode Island,” written by T. Clarke Brown. It was adopted in 1946.

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Ahh yes! They’re singing my song.

State Shell

Quahog State Shell

These hard-shelled clams were named by the Algonquins. Native Americans used the shells for money or wampum. Quahogs can be found in Narragansett Bay. K N O W YO U R C L A M S !

If you order an authentic Rhode Island seafood platter, expect some delicious quahogs, or clams, to be on your plate!

The size of the clam determines its name... Cherrystones are generally 1–1.5 inches (2–3.8 cm) in diameter. They’re a delicacy! Littlenecks are a little larger, about 1.5–2 inches (3.8–5 cm) in diameter. They are often steamed open and eaten right from the shell. Chowdahs are the “big boys,” at least 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter, usually around 4 inches (10 cm)! They’re used in chowder, stuffies, and clamcakes. • If you want fried clams, you get the softshell variety at “Flo’s” in Newport, and “Evelyn’s” in Tiverton.

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State Ship

Continental Sloop

P rovidence State Ship

The Continental sloop Providence is a 110-foot (34-meter) sailing vessel moored in Narragansett Bay. The fullrigged ship is a replica of the Providence under Captain John Paul Jones’ command The Providence is open to visitors in the War of and is often spotted sailing Independence. around During the vessel’s Narragansett Bay! Take a virtual tour tour of duty, she sank of the ship (see website list on or captured 40 British page 93)! enemy ships with her twelve guns. 20

State Map If you live in Rhode Island, you are never more than a few miles from an ocean beach, river, or bay. The state has 384 miles (618 kilometers) Woonsocket of shoreline, 146 295 including its Valley Falls 44 Central Falls 36 islands. Water 102 Pawtucket is the state’s most Providence East Providence important 6 114 14 Cranston Barrington resource. Pascoag

Greenville

West Warwick 117

Rhode Island is the smallest of the 50 states. About 500 Rhode Islands would fit inside Alaska, the nation’s largest state.

Warwick

117

Bristol

95

102

1

Prudence Island

24

102 2

138

138 Jamestown

138

Aquidneck Island

Newport

Kingston

95

24 Tiverton

4

4

State Map

Narragansett Pier

2 3 Westerly 1

Block Island

States are great!

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State Location R ho de Island is one of the southern N ew E n g l a n d s t a t e s. State Location

T H E CO N T I G U O U S U N I T E D S TAT E S nd e Isla d o h R

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Word Definition

LATITUDE: Imaginary lines which run horizontally east and west around the globe LONGITUDE: Imaginary lines which run vertically north and south around the globe

State Neighbors

On The Border! These border Rhode Island: States: Connecticut Massachusetts Bodies of water: Atlantic Ocean Narragansett Bay Mount Hope Bay R I s lh o d an e d

State Neighbors

usetts Massach

Moun

e Bay

Atlantic Ocean

Narra

gans

ett Ba y

ticut Connec

t Hop

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East-West, North-South, Area

I’ll Take the Low Road… East-West, North-South, Area

Rhode Island stretches 48 miles (77 kilometers) from north to south—or south to north. Either way, it’s a short drive!

Total Area: Approximately 1,231 square miles (3,188 square kilometers) Land Area: Approximately 1,045 square miles (2,706 square kilometers) Rhode Island is 37 miles (60 kilometers) from east to west—or west to east. Either way, it’s still a short drive! This is a compass rose. It helps you find the right direction on a map!

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Highest & Lowest Points

You Take the High Road!

HIGHEST POINT Jerimoth Hill—812 feet (248 meters)

Highest & Lowest Points

Rhode Island’s uplands have rolling hills and small valleys reaching their highest point in the northwestern and west central parts of the state. LOWEST POINT Sea level—along Atlantic Coast

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State Counties

I’m County-ing on You!

State Counties

Word Definition

Rhode Island is divided into five counties: • Providence • Kent COUNTY: an administrative • Washington subdivision of a state or • Bristol territory • Newport 1... 2... 3....

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4... 5!!

Natural Resources It’s All Natural!

Forests make up about 401,000 acres (162,284 hectares) in Rhode Island. More than 60 percent of the state is covered by timber.

Word Definition

NATURAL RESOURCES: things that exist in or are formed by nature

Natural Resources

Minerals and rocks: Cumberlandite Bowenite Granite Limestone Sandstone Graphite Quartzite Iron Sand Gravel Coal

The ocean also provides natural resources. Lobsters, quahogs, clams, squid, and fish are among the marine life commercial fishermen catch in their nets.

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Weather

Weather, Or Not?! Rhode Island has a humid continental climate that is fairly wet. Rhode Island’s temperatures average 29°F (-2°C) in the winter, and 71°F (22°C) in the summer. Weather

Highest Temperature: 104ºF (40ºC), Providence, August 2, 1975 ºF=Degrees Fahrenheit ºC=Degrees Celsius

Lowest Temperature: -25ºF (-32ºC), Greene, February 5, 1996

Hurricanes strike the state on an average of one every 10–15 years

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Topography

Rhode Island has fertile but rocky soil. Farming is less important than manufacturing.

100 m 328 ft 200 m 656 ft 500 m 1,640 ft 2,000 m 1,000 m 6,562 ft 3,281 ft

TOPOGRAPHY: the detailed mapping of Word Definition the features of a small area or district

Topography

5,000 m 16,404 ft

Rhode Island’s topography includes coastal lowlands that cover more than half the state. The uplands, also called the Western Rocky Upland, cover the northwestern third of the state.

Sea Level

Back On Top

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Coasts and Cliffs

Coasts and Cliffs

Rocky cliffs are found along the coastal lowlands, and rolling hills are part of the state’s “New England Upland.” Beacon Hill is the highest point on Block Island. Rising to 210 feet (64 meters), it offers hikers an extraordinary view of the sea. It served as a lookout point during the Revolution. 30

Rivers

Down The River Here are some of Rhode Island’s major rivers:

• Blackstone River • Pawtucket River • Seekonk River • Pawtuxet River system • Woonasquatucket • Moshassuck River • Providence River • Pawcatuck River Rivers • Sakonnet River

One of the best views in the state can be seen from an overlook on the Blackstone River. Blackstone Gorge is the only place in Rhode Island where people can go white water canoeing.

Grab a paddle!

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Bodies of Water

Gone Fishin’ Bodies of Water

●

Wallum Lake

●

Killingly Pond

●

Watchaug Pond

Scituate Reservoir supplies water to more than half the state’s population.

Word Definition

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●

Tiogue Pond

●

Worden Pond

●

Scituate Reservoir

●

Woonsocket Reservoir

●

Nannaquaket Pond

●

Stafford Pond

●

Quicksand Pond

●

Flat River Reservoir

RESERVOIR: a body of water stored for public use

Cities & Towns Are You a city mouse… or a Country Mouse?

I’m Pr Patr the ovidenc ick fro m raf e. Gra ters of I live in ce C the hurc old h.

Have you heard of these wonderful Rhode Island town, city, or crossroad names? Perhaps you can start your own list!

MAJOR CITIES:

• Providence • East Providence • Pawtucket • Cranston • Warwick • Woonsocket • Bristol • Newport

Cities & Towns

UNIQUE NAMES:

• Arctic • Moosup Valley • Harmony • Nooseneck • Usquepaug • Wyoming • Escoheag

Hi Mar there, P t a to t y. Mos trick. for he Moo ey on o I’m a vis sup v it so Rive er meti r me.

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Transportation Major Interstate Highways I-95 I-195 I-295

Railroads

Transportation

Passenger trains travel between New York City and Boston, Massachusetts, with stops in Westerly, Kingston, and Providence.

Major Airports Rhode Island air travelers use Theodore Francis Green Airport in Warwick, south of Providence.

Seaports Port of Providence Quonset Point Newport Ferries transport people, cars, and goods to and from Block Island.

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Timeline 1524 Giovanni da Verrazzano sails into present-day Narragansett Bay 1636 Roger Williams arrives in present-day Rhode Island and founds Providence 1644 Williams receives charter for Rhode Island 1663 England grants the colonists the Charter of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 1675 Native Americans attack Rhode Island settlers; burn towns; are eventually defeated 1764 Rhode Island soldiers fire at British ships in Narragansett Bay, inciting one of the first battles in the Revolutionary War 1775 Rhode Island’s general assembly outfits two war ships and forms the first U.S. Navy Timeline 1776 Rhode Island becomes first colony to renounce allegiance to England 1787 Rhode Islanders forbidden by law to trade slaves 1790 Rhode Island becomes the 13th state 1883 U.S. Navy opens Newport Naval Station 1843 Rhode Island adopts new constitution after Dorr Rebellion 1935 State government reorganized in “Bloodless Revolution” 1938 Hurricane strikes Rhode Island, killing 258 people and causing millions of dollars in property damage 1951 Constitutional Convention adopts amendments including home rule for cities and towns 1969 Newport Bridge from Jamestown to Newport dedicated 1971 General Assembly institutes personal income tax 1973 Quonset Point Naval Air Station closed 2001 Rhode Island enters the 21st century

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Early History

Here come the humans! Early History

Thousands of years ago, ancient peoples inhabited Rhode Island. They may have originally come across a frozen bridge of land between Asia and Alaska. If so, they slowly traveled east until some settled in what would one day become the state of Rhode Island. These early people were nomadic hunters who traveled in small bands. They camped when seasons offered hunting, fishing, and fruit and nut gathering.

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Early Indians Native Americans Once Ruled! A few Native Americans first settled in the New England area about 12,000 years ago. These early inhabitants had plenty of space for fishing, hunting and food gathering. The natives lived in small communities or camps, and made their own stone tools and traps for catching fish called weirs. They later began to grow crops that included corn, beans, squash, pumpkins, tobacco, and cucumbers.

Word Definition

Early Indians

WAMPUM: beads, pierced and strung, used by Indians as money or for ornaments

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Exploration

Land Ho!

One of the first explorers to discover present-day Narragansett Bay was Giovanni da Verrazzano in 1524. He was an Italian explorer who was excited about the land and riches available in the new world. There is speculation that Exploration some Portuguese navigators may have visited Rhode Island in the early 1500s. Miguel Cortereal left Newfoundland in 1502, and reportedly sailed along the eastern coast, perhaps stopping Explorers, missionaries, in Rhode Island. and adventurers Unfortunately, no one came from Europe on ships will ever know the truth, in the 1500s. because his ship was lost at sea. 38

Colonization

Home, Sweet Home The first permanent settlement in what is now Providence was founded in 1636 by Roger Williams. He obtained land near a freshwater spring from the Narragansett Indians for his community which advocated religious and political freedom. Neighboring Colonization settlements soon developed. They included present-day Portsmouth, Newport, and Warwick. Aquidneck Island, which is the largest of Rhode Island’s 35 islands clustered in Narragansett Bay, was purchased by Englishman Williams founded William Coddington from the first Baptist congregation in the Narragansett Indians America, but left in 1638 for 23 broadcloths shortly after. He called himself a and 13 hoes. Called “seeker,” or Pocasett by the Indians, searcher of truth. the settlers called it Portsmouth. 39

Industry Rhode Island is probably best known for industry. Shipbuilding and commerce were the major economic activities in Rhode Island in the late 17th century. Eventually, Rhode Island Slater Mill became the first state to industrialize, and was the site of the Industry first successful cotton mill. It was the first state to use waterpower to drive machinery. This revolutionized American manufacturing and the way Americans worked. The growing need for labor in the textile mills also brought a new wave of immigrants to Rhode Island in search of jobs. 40

Legends and Lore

Could Pirate Captain William Kidd’s booty still be buried on Conanicut Island, present-day Jamestown? It’s anybody’s guess, but local lore holds that Kidd’s thieving comrade, Thomas Paine, may have held the loot for him while he sailed up the coast to Boston. Unfortunately for Kidd, he was arrested and hanged upon his arrival and Legends never returned to Jamestown. and Lore A golden coin was found in Paine’s house when it was renovated, but the bulk of the booty was never recovered!

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Revolution

Freedom! Freedom!

Some settlers in the New World felt that England ignored their ideas and concerns. In 1775, the colonies went to war with England. On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed. The revolution deeply affected Rhode Island’s economy. During the British occupation of Newport in 1776, shipping stopped and hundreds of Revolution houses were burned. Most of Newport’s population fled. In the Battle of Rhode Island in 1778, American soldiers aided by the French, fought the British in Newport and Portsmouth. They successfully held them off with the assistance of Rhode Island’s Black Regiment One of the first composed of former slaves, skirmishes of the Revolution took but failed to drive them out. place in Two years later, 6,000 French Narragansett Bay when Rhode troops arrived in Newport. Island troops fired They are credited with on a British ship in 1764. helping American forces claim victory over the British at the Battle of Yorktown.

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Slaves and Slavery In 1774, Rhode Island became the first colony to prohibit slave importation. Later, in 1787, slave trading was forbidden, but the laws were not strongly enforced. Prior to the 1770s, Newport’s merchants participated in the “triangle trade” route. This involved ships sailing to three different ports: Newport, Africa, and the West Indies. The ships carried molasses, rum, and slaves. Molasses was imported from the West Indies to Newport for rum production. Rum was In 1865, traded for slaves in Africa the 13th and the slaves were Amendment traded in the West Indies abolished or sold in the colonies. slavery in the

Slaves and Slavery

United States.

Word Definition

ABOLITIONIST: person who believed slavery was wrong and should be ended

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The Civil War

The Civil War was fought between the American states. The argument was over states’ rights to make their own decisions, including whether or not to own slaves. Some of the southern states began to secede (leave) the Union. The Civil They formed the War Confederate States of America. Rhode Island tried to avoid going to war with the South because of their strong economic relationship. When war finally broke out, many men joined the Union Army. Word Definition

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RECONSTRUCTION: the recovery and rebuilding period following the Civil War.

The Civil War

In 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation, given by U.S. President Abraham Lincoln, freed the slaves still under Confederate control. Some slaves became sharecroppers; others went to Northern states to work in factories.

The Civil War was also called the War Between the States. Soldiers often found themselves fighting against former friends and neighbors, even brother against brother. Those who did survive often went home without an arm, leg, or both, since amputation was the “cure” for most battlefield wounds. More Americans were killed during the Civil War than during World Wars I and II together!

The Civil War

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Famous Documents

Get It In Writing! 1644 Roger Williams receives charter from England for Rhode Island

1663 Charter of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations Famous Documents

1776 Declaration of Independence

1783 Treaty of Paris ends Revolutionary War

1790 U.S. Constitution signed by Rhode Island 46

Immigrants

Welcome To America! People have come to Rhode Island from other states and many other countries on almost every continent! As time goes by, Rhode Island’s population grows more diverse. This means that people of different races and from different cultures and ethnic backgrounds have moved to Rhode Island.

Immigrants

In the past, many immigrants have come to Rhode Island from Ireland. More recently, people have migrated to Rhode Island from eastern Europe and southeast Asia. Only a certain number of immigrants are allowed to move to America each year. Many of these immigrants eventually become U.S. citizens.

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Disasters & Catastrophes!

1778

The Hessian Storm sweeps across New England; nine German mercenaries freeze at their posts in Newport

1815

September Gale leaves Providence streets flooded with nearly 14 feet of water (4.2 meters); ships sail down the city’s main street

1929 Stock-market crash 1930 S Great Depression Disasters & Catastrophes! kills 258 people 1938 Hurricane and causes millions of dollars in property damage, including the destruction of the biggest roller coaster on the east coast in Island Park.

1940

Unemployment reaches 17 percent after World War II

1978 Great Blizzard of ‘78; heavy snowfall on February 6–7 immobilizes the state 48

Legal Stuff 1726–1747

Boundary disputes are resolved with Connecticut and Massachusetts resulting in annexation of Cumberland and several towns including Bristol

1841

Ratification of the People’s Constitution reforming voting requirements and other state reforms

Legal Stuff

1935

Major governmental reorganization known as the “Bloodless Revolution,” cements Democratic rule for more than 20 years

1977

State establishes department of environmental management 49

Women & Children Jemima Wilkinson—woman teacher and religious leader in the late 18th century and early 19th century; believed she was called by God to preach Elizabeth Buffum Chace— a Quaker matron turned political activist in the early 1800s; fought for women’s rights, battled slavery, and remained a model mother Women & Children

Sarah Doyle—instrumental in establishing a network of women’s clubs and pushed for the admission of women to Brown University in the late 1800s

Katharine Gibbs—started a chain of secretarial schools in 1911 with a two-room school in Providence and one student Isabelle Ahearn O’Neill—Rhode Island’s first woman legislator in 1922; worked to sponsor legislation to care for women and children; fought to expand widows’ pensions 50

Wars

Fight! Fight! Fight! Wars that impacted Rhode Island include: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

French and Indian Wars Revolutionary War War of 1812 Mexican-American War Civil War Spanish-American War World War I World War II

Korean War

Wars

Vietnam War Persian Gulf War

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Newport The sea and natural beauty of Newport is what drew its first visitors in the 18th century. Later it Newport Bridge was discovered by the rich and powerful members of New York society who built about 60 “summer cottages,” actually multi-million-dollar mansions, along its coast. Some of the most famous Bowen’s Wharf mansions include The Breakers, the summer home of Newport Cornelius Vanderbilt, Rosecliff, The Elms, Marble House, and Belcourt Castle. One of the biggest society weddings of the century also took place in Newport when Jacqueline Bouvier wed John F. Kennedy in 1953 at St. Mary’s Church. Pelham Street in Newport was the first The Breakers street in the United States to be illuminated by gas lamps! 52

Indian Tribes • Narragansett • Wampanoag • Nipmuc • Niantic • Pequot There were five groups of Native Americans inhabiting present-day Rhode Island when the first white explorers arrived. The Narragansett was the largest and most powerful group. About 5,000 Narragansett occupied most of the area. The Indian Wampanoag lived east of Narragansett Bay. The Tribes Nipmuc lived in the northern portion of Rhode Island and into Massachusetts and Connecticut. The Niantic occupied southwestern Rhode Island and coastal Connecticut. The Pequot had some land along the state’s The Indians of Rhode Island could western border, but lived mostly not have known that in Connecticut. the coming of the white man would mean an end to the way of life they had known for hundreds of years.

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Explorers and Settlers

Here, There, Everywhere! Giovanni da Verrazzano—an Italian explorer who first sailed into present-day Narragansett Bay in 1524.

William Coddington—settled Aquidneck Island in Narragansett Bay in 1638; sought religous freedom Samuel Gorton—founded the city of Warwick Explorers and Settlers

John Clarke—settled Aquidneck Island, also known as Pocasset; sought religous freedom

Roger Williams—Englishman who founded Providence as a haven for people N seeking religious and political freedom in 1636 Bon Voyage!

E

W

S 54

State Founders

Founding Fathers William Blackstone—Anglican minister who settled on the site of present-day Cumberland near the river that bears his name Nicholas Easton—co-founder of the town of Newport with William Coddington in 1639 Nathanael Greene—a Revolutionary War general, led 1,000 troops from Rhode Island to Boston to join up with the Continental Army Commander Esek Hopkins—commander-in-chief of the Continental Navy Abraham Whipple—commanded two ships in the American Revolution, which marked the start of the American Navy

Founding Mothers

State Founders

Anne Hutchinson—founded Aquidneck Island in 1638 with her husband William; known for her controversial religious beliefs Julia Ward Howe—founded the New England Woman Suffrage Association; worked for women’s rights; poet and author of “Battle Hymn of the Republic;” died in Newport in 1910

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Famous African-Americans Christiana Cartreax Bannister and Edward Bannister were a notable Providence couple who were influential in the arts and social causes. Christiana, who was part-black and part-Indian, established herself as a successful businesswoman in the 1850s through her hair salons. She hired Edward Bannister, an aspiring artist and free black man, to work as a barber in one of her shops in 1853. Four years later they married, and Edward quit cutting hair to develop his talent as a landscape and seascape painter. During the Civil War, Christiana was involved in the movement to pay black soldiers serving in the 4th Regiment equal pay and benefits. She was president of Boston’s Sanitary Fair of Colored Ladies and held fundraisers to raise money for the wives and children of underpaid soldiers. Christiana was also influential in founding the Famous Home for Aged Colored Women, present day AfricanBannister House. This was a place for homeless Americans black domestic workers. She later moved into the home she helped to establish. She died there in 1902. black The first regiment to fight for America against the British in the Revolutionary War took part in the Battle of Rhode Island.

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Ghosts

D O Y

O

U

Sprague Mansion in Cranston has been the site of eerie apparitions and ghosts since 1925. Sightings on the stairway, in the doll room, and in the wine cellar, have been reported. The house was built in 1790 by William Sprague. Sprague died as the result of swallowing a fish bone. Later his son, Amasa, was brutally beaten in the house. Amasa and a butler who worked at the mansion in the 1890s are reportedly the most active spirits!

B ELIEVE

IN

Ghosts

G H O S T S?

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Sports Stuff The Pawtucket Red Sox—affectionately called the Pawsox by fans—is a minor league farm team of the Boston Red Sox, and is the only professional sports team in Rhode Island. Their home games are played at McCoy Stadium, site of the longest pro-baseball game in history. On April 18, 1981, the Pawsox were tied 2–2 with the Rochester Red Wings when the game was suspended at 4:09 a.m. on April 19. They wrapped up the game two months later with the Pawsox claiming victory in the 33rd inning! College hockey, basketball, and football are sports which draw a crowd. Rhode Island is also a big ice hockey state, with three players from Woonsocket playing on the U.S. Olympic Sports Stuff Hockey Team in 1998. Weekend sportsmen can be found on the tennis courts and on the water, especially in Newport, home of the America’s Cup sailing races. In 1999, stunt bicycling, skateboarding, rollerblading and street luge were introduced in Providence. Known as the “Gravity Games,” these extreme sports activities are broadcast on TV.

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Entertainers o Ruth Ann Buzzi—comedian and actor; member of Sesame Street cast o Harry Anderson—actor, featured on TV’s Night Court o George Michael Cohan—composer and actor, father of the musical comedy o Eddie Dowling— actor and producer o Nelson Eddie— singer and actor o Bobby Hackett—trumpeter o Ruth Hussey—actress o Thomas H. Ince—film producer Entertainers o Van Johnson—actor o Debra Messing—actor, featured on TV’s Will and Grace o Providence provides the setting for

the TV show of the same name. o Scenes from the movie epic

Amistad were shot at Newport’s historic Colony House. 59

Authors ✒ Leonard Bacon—poet, awarded the Pulitzer for Sunderland Capture and Other Poems in 1941 ✒ Julia Ward Howe—wrote text for “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”, writer, reformer, and poet ✒ Howard Phillips (H.P.) Lovecraft— science fiction/horror short story writer and novelist Authors

✒ Edwin O’Connor—novelist, received the Pulitzer Prize for The Edge of Sadness H.P. Lovecraft is second only to Edgar Allan Poe when it comes to crafting stories of the supernatural. Many of his tales were set in New England and involved monsters and unspeakable evil.

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✒ Oliver Hazard Perry La Farge— novelist who won Pulitzer Prize for Laughing Boy

Artists Edward Bannister—landscape and seascape artist; helped found Rhode Island School of Design Don Bousquet—a satirical cartoonist from Rhode Island whose wacky cartoon strips make little sense to anyone outside the state! Edward Benjamin Koren— cartoonist and illustrator for national print publications

Artists

John La Farge—artist who painted murals and panels in New York City churches Gilbert Stuart—portrait artist who painted the first five presidents of the United States, including one you see every day—on the dollar bill! 61

Very Important People William Alison “Bill” Anders— pilot, astronaut, crew member of Apollo 8 spacecraft John Brown—shipping merchant who made fortune in the 1700s in slave trading and privateering; outfitted and supplied the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War John Carter Brown—donated collection of American books to Brown University; library named after him John Carter Brown III—director of National Gallery of Art Very Important People

Joseph Brown—colonial engineer and architect

Moses Brown—built first cotton textile mill in Pawtucket to manufacture cotton thread using waterpower; merchant and abolitionist Nicholas Brown—merchant; founded Rhode Island College which was renamed Brown University in his honor Jabez Gorham—Providence silversmith who is the father of Rhode Island’s silver industry; founder of Gorham Manufacturing Co. 62

More Very Important People Irving R. Levine—news commentator and NBC correspondent Aaron Lopez—merchant specializing in whaling, fishing, and candlemaking in the 1700s Samuel Slater—father of the American textile industry, built first water-powered cotton spinning machine Thomas William Dorr—led “Dorr Rebellion” against the state government for reform of the constitution; drafted 1841 “People’s Constitution” More Very Horace Mann—lawyer, politician, educator, known as “father of American public education”

Important People

Napoleon “Nap” Lajoie— Lajoie baseball player and Hall of Fame honoree; hit the highest season batting average in 1901 for the Philadelphia Athletics 63

Good Guys, Patriots, and Heroes George M. Cohan—born in Providence, he wrote such patriotic favorites as “Over There”, “Yankee Doodle Dandy” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag” Stephen Hopkins—patriot and politician; governor of the Rhode Island colony in the 1750s and 1760s; member of the Continental Congress and a signer of the Declaration of Independence Matthew Calbraith Perry— naval officer who Good Guys, fought in the War of Patriots, and 1812 and the Mexican Heroes War in 1847; opened diplomatic and trade relations with Japan in 1853 Oliver Hazard Perry— commanded fleet of ships in the War of 1812; won the Battle of Lake Erie 64

Political Leaders Nelson Wilmarth Aldrich—legislator who worked for banking reform in early 1900s; Aldrich Plan preceded the 1913 Federal Reserve Act Ambrose Burnside—threeterm governor of Rhode Island (1866–69) and U.S. Senator (1875–81); commanded Army of the Potomac in the Civil War; known for his bushy facial hair which became known as “sideburns” Theodore Francis Green—Democratic governor of Rhode Island (1933–37), state reformer and U.S. Senator John Milton Hay—private secretary to Abraham Lincoln, ambassador to Great Britain and U.S. Secretary of State Benedict Arnold— Local politics is often decided by the Newport resident; was people in town first colonial governor of meetings. Fifteen of the state’s Rhode Island municipalities are Nicholas Cooke— governor of Rhode Island from 1775–1778

Political Leaders

governed by home rule, meaning local laws do not require state approval.

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Churches and Schools

Keeping the Faith In Providence: o First Baptist Church—oldest Baptist church in the United States o First Unitarian Church—designed by John Holden Greene; combines Gothic and classical motif o The Cathedral of Saint John—built in 1811 from plans by John Holden Greene o Grace Church—Gothic Revival church designed by William Upjohn o Beneficent Congregational Church —known as “Roundtop” for its dome o Friends Meetinghouse, Lincoln—oldest Quaker meetinghouse still in use in New England o Old Narragansett Church, Wickford—built in 1707; historic cemetery across the road o St. Paul’s, Wickford—built in the Romanesque style in 1847 o Congregational Church, Kingston—built in 1820 o Touro Synagogue, Newport—oldest Jewish house of worship in America, designed by Peter Harrison; dedicated in 1763 o Quaker Meetinghouse, Newport—built in 1699; haven for Quakers seeking religious tolerance from other colonies o Trinity Church, Newport—Tiffany stained-glass windows may have been an attraction for George Washington, who often prayed in pew box number 81 o Channing Memorial Church—built in 1881, named in honor of William Ellery Channing, founder of the Unitarian faith in Boston Churches and Schools

SCHOOLS

o Brown University, Providence o Rhode Island School of Design, Providence o U.S. Naval War College, Newport o University of Rhode Island, Kingston o Providence College, Providence o New England Institute of Technology, Warwick o Rhode Island College, Providence o Johnson and Wales University, Providence o Roger Williams College, Bristol o Salve Regina University, Newport

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Historic Sites and Parks

HISTORIC SITES o Old State House, Providence—built in 1762, now houses the Rhode Island Heritage Commission and Historical Preservation Commission o The Brick School House, Providence—one of the first school buildings in the city; now headquarters of the Providence Preservation Society

Old State House

o Gothic Castle, Providence—the old state arsenal, designed by Russell Warren, built in 1839 o Providence Arcade, Providence— nation’s first enclosed shopping mall, built in 1828 in Greek Revival style o Slater Mill Historic Site, Pawtucket— first textile mill in the country powered by water; site includes Historic Sites and buildings and other structures, Parks preserved and restored o Moffatt Mill, Lincoln—small water-powered factory o Armory of the Artillery Company of Newport—built in the mid-1830s, houses a large collection of weapons and military items o White Horse Tavern, Newport—site of the oldest surviving tavern in America, opened in 1673

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Home, Sweet Home! o Joseph Brown House, Providence—designed by Brown in 1774, whimsical house with curving gable and original doorway on the second floor o Thomas Poynton Ives House, Providence— federal mansion built in 1806 o Sprague Mansion, Cranston—28-room mansion that includes the Carrington Collection of Oriental Art and a restored carriage house that contains vintage wagons, sleighs and carriages o Eleazer Arnold House, Lincoln—known as a “stone-ender” with a chimney that occupies entire wall of the two-story house o Easton’s Point, Newport—site of many 18th century houses Home, Sweet Home!

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Benefit Street, Providence—district of preserved houses from various design periods; includes Number 88, home of poet, Sarah Helen Whitman; 109 Benefit, Sullivan Dorr House; The Providence Art Club on 10 Thomas Street; and the John Brown house, built in 1786, described by John Quincy Adams as the most magnificent he had ever seen.

Battles and Forts o Gaspee Point—site of the capture and burning of the British revenue schooner Gaspee in 1772 by Captain Abraham Whipple and a band of 64 raiders o Fort Ningret State Historic Site, Charlestown—site of original outline of Dutch fort which predates the Pilgrims’ Plymouth landing in 1620 o Queen’s Fort State Historic Site, near Exeter— site of ruins of an ancient Native American fort abandoned in 1676 o Fort Wetherill State Park, Conanicut Island—an American fort and artillery battery used during the American Revolution o Fort Getty State Park, Conanicut Island—site of Revolutionary War earthen barriers o Fort Adams State Park, Newport— 20-acre Battles and Forts (8 hectares) preserve of massive granite walls, tunnels and powder magazines built between 1829 and 1857 to protect Narragansett Bay; the fort never saw action o Fort Barton Revolutionary War Redoubt, Tiverton—a tower perched on a cliff provides a panoramic view of the Sakonnet River and Aquidneck Island; little is left of the fort itself except for earthen ridges

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Libraries Check out the following special state libraries! (Do you have a library card? Have you worn it out yet?!) Each of Rhode Island’s 39 municipalities have at least one public library, for a total of 50. The libraries are estimated to circulate 5.4 books for every resident annually! The largest facility is the Providence Public Library. The oldest state library is the Redwood Library in Newport. Brown University’s collections include more than one million volumes. Other important libraries can be found at the University of Rhode Island and the Rhode Island School of Design. Providence has one of the nation’s oldest libraries, the Athenaeum. Libraries

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Looking for facts on the history of Rhode Island? Try the Library of the Rhode Island Historical Society in Providence!

Zoos and Attractions Roger Williams Park in Providence is more than a park with lakes, gardens and recreation areas. It is also the site of a planetarium, zoo, natural history museum, and aviary. Crescent Park, Providence, may have been replaced by condominiums but its 1895 Looff Carousel remains. Designed and built by Charles I.D. Looff, the wooden carousel features carved horses, mirrors, colored glass, jewels, tiny lights, and a baroquestyle organ. The carousel still operates today. Waterplace Park and Providence Riverwalk allows visitors to stroll along the Woonasquatucket River and enjoy entertainment at the small amphitheater. On special nights, WaterFire, a show created by artist Barnaby Evans, can be viewed on the Providence River. Plant and flower enthusiasts will find about 80 sculptured trees and shrubs in the Green Animals Topiary Gardens at the Portsmouth Gardens. Tiverton Four Corners is a fine example of Rhode Island’s push to Zoos and revitalize and Attractions restore its historical sites. Marking the intersections of Main Road, and East Road, Four Corners dates back to the 1600s when a sawmill and gristmill were in operation. Today, quaint shops and restored Victorian homes make it a tourist attraction.

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Museums o Providence Children’s Museum, Providence—hands-on museum for children aged 2–11 o Museum of Rhode Island History, Providence— changing exhibits of state history, architecture, and decorative arts o Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology, Bristol— collection of Indian art and artifacts o Rhode Island Black Heritage Society, Providence— documents the trials and triumphs of black Rhode Islanders through documents, photographs and a permanent exhibit called “Creative Survival” o Johnson & Wales Culinary Archives and Museum, Providence—world’s largest culinary collection o Varnum Military Museum, East Greenwich—displays weapons and military items o Sydney L. Wright Museum, Conanicut Island—Indian and colonial artifacts from the island o Newport Historical Society, Newport—houses a marine museum with pictures and models of merchant marine and local boating artifacts o Tennis Museum and Hall of Fame, Newport—tennis memorabilia and the hall of fame are parts of the Newport Casino, Museums built in 1881; one of the nation’s first country clubs

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Monuments and Memorials

o Roger Williams National Memorial, Providence—a 4.5-acre (1.8-hectare) park on the site of the spring where Williams settled in 1636 o Count Rochambeau, Newport—statue of this French leader commemorates his country’s military aid in 1780 during the Revolutionary War o World War I Memorial State Historic Site, Providence—granite shaft 115 feet tall (35 meters) that supports a figure representing peace

Monuments and Memorials

o Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium, Providence—state’s World War II memorial o General Stanton State Historic Site, Charlestown—granite shaft erected to honor Joseph Stanton, Jr., a veteran of the French and Indian War and one of the state’s first U.S. senators

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The Arts o Rhode Island School of Design, Providence—its museum of art is considered to be one of New England’s finest o David Winton Bell Gallery, Providence—Brown University’s gallery of 20th century paintings, sculptures, and changing exhibits o Newport Art Museum and Art Association, Newport—local and New England art o Ann-Mary Brown Memorial, Providence— Brown University gallery exhibits printed matter and American paintings o Community Players of Pawtucket o Blackstone River Theater, Central Falls o Newport Music Festival The Arts

o Jazz Festival, Newport To be, or not to be involved in the arts—that is the question. What is your answer?

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o Puppet Workshop, Providence o Trinity Repertory Company, Providence

Seashores & Lighthouses

SEASHORES Block Island—10 miles (16 kilometers) offshore; resort features beaches for swimming, boating, and fishing. It was named “Manisses,” meaning “God’s Little Island,” by Native Americans. Rhode Island has more than 3 dozen beaches along its coastline. Among the largest are: Charlestown Town Beach, Narragansett Town Beach, Watch Hill Town Beach, East Matunuck State Beach, and Green Hill, south Kingston. 1

LET THERE BE LIGHT! 2

3

4

6

5

Rhode Island has 12 working light houses. Block Island’s North Light House has the most powerful beacon on the east coast. Its Seashores & Southeast Light has a museum of lighthouse Lighthouses history. Other state lighthouses include Watch Hill (1), Castle Hill (2) in Newport, Beavertail (3), off Jamestown, Point Judith (4), Hog Island (5), Conimicut, Sakonnet (6), Warwick, Sandy Point, and Goat Island.

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Roads, Bridges, and More! Roads, o Interstate 95 runs diagonally from southwest to northeast. o Other major highways include: Interstate 295, which loops around Providence, and U.S. highways 6 and 1. o Ocean Drive, a scenic coastal route in Newport, and Bellevue Avenue in Newport both provide views of historic mansions Sakonnet Bridge

Bridges, o Stone Bridge—drawbridge that once connected Tiverton and Portsmouth o Sakonnet Bridge, Tiverton–Portsmouth o Mount Hope Bridge, Portsmouth–Bristol o Newport Bridge, Newport–Jamestown o Jamestown-Verrazzano Bridge, Jamestown–mainland o Claiborne Pell Bridge, Jamestown–mainland Roads, Bridges, and More!

and More!

Newport Bridge

Cliff Walk & Breakers o Narragansett Bay and Block Island Ferries o Cliff Walk, Newport— 3-mile path between Easton’s Beach and Bailey’s Beach o Tiverton and Bristol—great roads for cycling o Thames Street, Newport—waterfront street; home to first colonial artisans

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Salty Ponds and Marshes Known as the Ocean State, Rhode Island has a wealth of salt ponds and marshes. Separated from the Atlantic Ocean by beaches, the salt ponds are home to a variety of fish, shellfish, and birds. At low tide,

saltwater pools form around the rocks, serving as natural aquariums for small fish, crabs, snails, and barnacles. The saltmarshes Salty Ponds are wetlands that provide a banquet of and natural foods for small sea creatures and Marshes mammals. Tall grasses and boggy soil are typically found in the saltmarshes.

Word Definition

SALT PONDS: shallow lagoons fed by ocean salt water and fresh water from streams, rivers, and creeks; serve as habitats for small fish and waterfowl

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Animals

Rhode Island’s Animals include:

Animals

White-Tailed Deer Raccoon Chipmunk Gray Squirrel Woodchuck Muskrat Skunks Rabbits Opossums Mink Red Foxes Salamanders Turtles Snakes Rhode Island is also home to coyotes. They are natural predators.

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Wildlife Watch Some endangered Rhode Island animals are: Tern

Sea Turtles

American Burying Beetle

Puma

Finback Whale Right Whale

The wild turkey has been successfully reintroduced to the state and is common in the western half.

Sturgeon Wildlife Watch

Humpback Whale

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Birds You may spy these

birds in Rhode Island:

Ducks Gulls Herons Rail Geese Cormorants Terns Red-tailed Hawk Osprey Black-capped Chickadee Blue Jay Bobwhite Ruffed Grouse Catbird Warblers ird’s hummingb A Birds

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wings beat 75 times a second— so fast that you only see a blur! It makes short squeaky sounds but do not sing.

Insects

Don’t let these Rhode Island bugs bug you! Mayfly Bumblebee Dragonfly Damselfly Field Cricket Cicada Butterfly Stick insect Sphinx Moth Assassin Bug Tiger Swallowtail Yellow Jacket Ladybug

Grasshopper Do we know any of these bugs?

Maybe... Hey, that ladybug is cute!

Whirligig beetles have two pairs of eyes—one pair looks above the water, the other under it!

Ants

Praying Mantis

Insects

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Marine Life Flounder Cod Striped Bass Blackfish Swordfish Quahogs Scallops Oysters Crabs Lobsters Perch Trout Bluefish Sharks Squid

Marine Life

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Pond Critters Water Flea Diving Beetle Freshwater Eel Minnow Catfish Bluegill Musk Turtle Painted Turtle Wood Duck Muskrat Cricket Frog Water Snake

Water snakes can grow 6 feet (1.8 meters) long. They are usually greenish-black to dullish-red in color. Look for them in quiet ponds and swamps.

Pond Critters

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Seashells She sells seas

h

ells by the Rhode Island seash ore !

Periwinkles Moon Shells Wentletrap Bubble Shell Mussel

Seashells

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A shipworm is a clam with a long, worm-like body and a tiny shell at one end. They use their sharp shells to bore into wood where they live.

Oyster Scallop Cockle Angel Wing Shipworm Coquina Quahog Seashell sale!

Trees These trees tower over Rhode Island: Oak Pine Elm Beech Ash Hickory Cedar Birch Hemlock Red Maple Flowering Dogwood

Trees

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Wildflowers Are you crazy

abou t these

flowers? land s I de Rho

Violet Aster Goldenrod Lily Orchid Buttercup Butter-and-Eggs Milkweed Sedges

Wildflowers

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Do you ever think you would eat Butter-and-Eggs for a sore throat? Early colonists used this beautiful yellow and orange flower to make a medicine that soothed a scratchy throat!

Flower Power!

Cream of the Crops Agricultural products from Rhode Island:

Sweet Corn

Poultry and Eggs

Hay

Grapes and Wine

Dairy

Potatoes

Pears

Apples

Shrubs Trees

Peaches

Cream of the Crops

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First/Big/Small/Etc. o Rhode Island is the smallest state in the Union. It was the first of the original 13 colonies to declare its independence from Great Britain, but the last to ratify the U.S. Constitution. o Rhode Island is the home of the first wateroperated textile mill in the United States. o Newport is sometimes called America’s First Resort. Resort o The first Mr. Potato Head was made in Pawtucket by Hasbro toy company in 1952. o The nation’s oldest carousel is in Watch Hill. o Newport hosted the first circus in the U.S. o The Narragansett Pacer is the first American-bred horse from the Colonial era. o Ida Z. Lewis became the nation’s first woman lighthouse keeper taking over from her ill father in 1857. She was born in Newport and manned the Lime First/Big/ Rock Lighthouse Small/Etc. until her death in 1911. 88

Festivals

Celeb rate!!!

o Winter Sports Carnival, Providence—first week in February

o Newport-Bermuda Yacht Race, Newport—once very two years in June o Heritage Day Pow Wow, Warwick— November o Antique Auto Tour, Woonsocket to Westerly—October

o Gaspee Days Colonial Encampment, Warwick—June o Providence Festival Chorus, Providence—June o Newport Music Festival, Newport— July o Charlestown Chamber Seafood Festival, Charlestown—August o Providence Waterfront Festival, Providence—December o Feast of St. Joseph, Providence—May

Festivals

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Holidays

Calendar Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, 3rd Monday in January

Presidents’ Day, 3rd Monday in February

Memorial Day, last Monday in May

Independence Day, July 4

Victory Day August 13

Labor Day, 1st Monday in September

Columbus Day 2nd Monday in October

Veterans Day, November 11

Thanksgiving, 4th Thursday in November

Holidays

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Rhode Island celebrates Ratification Day on May 29.

Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Vietnamese Tet, and Chinese New Year are all special celebrations in Rhode Island.

Famous Food Rhode Island is famous for…

the following foods! Delectable Steamed Quahogs Stuffed Quahogs Steamy Creamy Clam Chowder Clamcakes Yum, yum. This is great! Let’s dig in!

Fresh Lobsters Crisp and Buttery Johnnycakes Pasta by the Pound Cheeseless Pizza Fried Fish Grinders (deli-style sandwiches) Coffee Milk Greening Apples Clambake

Famous Food

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Business & Trade Rhode Island Works! Rhode Island has a diverse economy with several major industries including seafood, metalworking, textile manufacturing, and costume jewelry manufacturing. Tourism has also been a source of revenue since the Gilded Age of the late 1800s, early 1900s when extravagant mansions and entertaining drew wealthy New Yorkers to Rhode Island’s scenic coastline. Shipbuilding remains an important facet in the economy, along with the U.S. Navy, which remains the single largest employer in Newport County. Island, USS Rhode Island, The Naval Education and SSBN 740, in Training Center, Naval Narragansett Bay Underwater System Center, and the Naval War College continue operating in Newport. Business & Trade

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RI Books & Websites My First Book About Rhode Island by Carole Marsh America the Beautiful: Rhode Island by Sylvia McNair Kids Learn America by Patricia Gordon and Reed C. Snow Let’s Discover the States: Rhode Island by the Aylesworths The Rhode Island Experience Series by Carole Marsh

Cool Rhode Isl and W ebsit http://www.sta es te.ri.u http://www.rhod s eislandexperienc e.com http://www.50s tates.com http://www.net state.com http://www.tive rton.org http://www.pro jo.com http://www.slo opprovidence.o rg

RI Books & Websites

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Glossary

Rhode Island Glossary

abolitionist: a person opposed to slavery

G LO S S A R Y W O R D S

bay: body of water that juts into a coastline to form a hollow curve colony: a region controlled by a distant country constitution: a document outlining the role of government ferry: a boat used to cross a body of water fort: a building with strong walls for defending against an enemy immigrant: a person who comes to a new country to live plantation: a large estate, usually in a warm climate, where crops are grown by workers who live on the estate port: a city with a harbor where ships can load and unload Glossary

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resources: a supply of something that takes care of a need

Spelling List

Rhode Island Spelling Bee

SPELLING WORDS

Here are some special Rhode Island-related words to learn! To take the Spelling Bee, have someone call out the words and you spell them aloud or write them on a piece of paper. agriculture arcade carousel climate coastal ferryboats hockey lighthouses Little Rhody mansion

manufacturing molasses museum Newport Portsmouth Providence quahog salt ponds textiles yacht racing Spelling List

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About the Author About the Author... CAROLE MARSH has been writing about Rhode Island for more than 20 years. She is the author of the popular Rhode Island State Stuff Series for young readers and creator along with her son, Michael Marsh, of Rhode Island Facts and Factivities, a CD-ROM widely used in Rhode Island schools. The author of more than 100 Rhode Island books and other supplementary educational materials on the state, Marsh is currently working on a new collection of Rhode Island materials for young people. Marsh correlates her Rhode Island materials to the Rhode Island learning standards. Many of her books and other materials have been inspired by or requested by Rhode Island teachers and librarians. You know… that was a great experience!

Sure was! Thanks for taking me along.

EDItorial Assistant: About the Author

Pat Newman

ARTist: GRAPHIC ARTIST:

Steven Saint-Laurent (who is from Rhode Island!) 96

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