Saint Thomas Episcopal Church and Rectory
Putnam Pike, Smithfield, RI Local significance of the building: Architecture; Religion
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Rhode Island was the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, and its mills and factories were once the envy of the world.
About Providence County
Providence County Timeline
Providence County, located in the state of Rhode Island, has a rich and storied history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Narragansett Native American tribe before European colonization began in the 17th century. In 1636, Roger Williams founded the settlement of Providence, which would become the capital city of Rhode Island and the county seat of Providence County.
During the 18th century, Providence County experienced rapid industrial growth. The region became a major center for manufacturing, particularly in textiles, which helped fuel the Industrial Revolution in America. Mills and factories sprang up along the banks of the Blackstone River, utilizing its water power. This economic expansion led to an influx of immigrants, including Irish and Italian populations, who played a significant role in the area's cultural diversity.
Providence County played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. It was the site of important military actions such as the burning of the British revenue cutter Gaspee in 1772, a famous act of resistance against British authority. The county also supplied troops for the Continental Army, and notable figures like General Nathanael Greene, a trusted aide of George Washington, hailed from the area.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Providence County continued to thrive industrially and economically. It became a center for innovation in fields like jewelry manufacturing and machine tool production. Additionally, the county witnessed significant social advancements, such as the establishment of institutions for higher education, including Brown University in Providence.
Today, Providence County remains a vibrant and diverse region. Its rich history is showcased through numerous museums, historic sites, and cultural events. The county's legacy as an industrial and cultural hub continues to shape its identity and contribute to Rhode Island's overall heritage.
During the 18th century, Providence County experienced rapid industrial growth. The region became a major center for manufacturing, particularly in textiles, which helped fuel the Industrial Revolution in America. Mills and factories sprang up along the banks of the Blackstone River, utilizing its water power. This economic expansion led to an influx of immigrants, including Irish and Italian populations, who played a significant role in the area's cultural diversity.
Providence County played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. It was the site of important military actions such as the burning of the British revenue cutter Gaspee in 1772, a famous act of resistance against British authority. The county also supplied troops for the Continental Army, and notable figures like General Nathanael Greene, a trusted aide of George Washington, hailed from the area.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Providence County continued to thrive industrially and economically. It became a center for innovation in fields like jewelry manufacturing and machine tool production. Additionally, the county witnessed significant social advancements, such as the establishment of institutions for higher education, including Brown University in Providence.
Today, Providence County remains a vibrant and diverse region. Its rich history is showcased through numerous museums, historic sites, and cultural events. The county's legacy as an industrial and cultural hub continues to shape its identity and contribute to Rhode Island's overall heritage.
Providence County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Providence County, Rhode Island.
- 1636: Providence County was founded by Roger Williams when he purchased land from the Narragansett tribe.
- 1643: Providence Plantations, including Providence County, joined the New England Confederation.
- 1703: Providence County was officially established as one of three counties in the colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
- 1780: The Rhode Island General Assembly divided Providence County into five separate towns: Providence, Pawtucket, Cumberland, and Smithfield.
- 1804: The city of Providence was officially incorporated as a separate municipality within Providence County.
- 1831: The city of Pawtucket was officially incorporated as a separate municipality within Providence County.
- 1868: The town of East Providence was separated from the city of Providence and incorporated as a separate municipality.
- 1871: Burrillville was separated from Glocester and became a separate town in Providence County.
- 1910: Woonsocket was incorporated as a city within Providence County.
- 1972: Foster and Scituate were transferred from Providence County to neighboring Kent County.
- 1986: The town of Smithfield was expanded to include the former town of Georgiaville.