National Register Listing

Sheffield House

Beach Rd., Charlestown, RI
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

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.

architecture houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Rhode Island.
The state's official nickname, "The Ocean State," is a reference to Rhode Island's long coastline and its many bays, coves, and harbors.
Rhode Island random facts
Washington County, located in the state of Rhode Island, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Narragansett Native American tribe, who lived off the land and engaged in trade with European settlers. In the early 17th century, European explorers and settlers arrived in the region, marking the beginning of significant changes in the area.

During the colonial era, what is now Washington County saw the establishment of several towns, including Charlestown, South Kingstown, and Westerly. These settlements thrived as agricultural communities, with farmers taking advantage of the fertile soil and favorable climate to cultivate crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The county was also known for its fishing industry, particularly in the coastal towns.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Washington County played a role in the American Revolution and the Industrial Revolution. The area was a significant center for shipbuilding and maritime trade, with ships being constructed in towns along the coast, and goods being transported to and from Providence and other nearby ports. The county's proximity to the ocean also made it vulnerable to British attacks during the Revolution, leading to skirmishes and the establishment of coastal defenses.

In the 20th century, Washington County experienced significant growth and development, particularly in the tourism and education sectors. The county's picturesque coastal towns, beautiful beaches, and nature trails attracted visitors from far and wide, making tourism a vital part of the local economy. It also became home to the University of Rhode Island, which has played a crucial role in education and research, contributing to the county's intellectual and cultural vibrancy.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Washington County, Rhode Island.

  • 1664 - Washington County is established and named after President George Washington.
  • 1680 - Quakers settle in the town of South Kingstown.
  • 1722 - The town of Westerly is incorporated.
  • 1729 - Charlestown is officially incorporated as a town.
  • 1742 - Hopkinton is established as a separate town from Westerly.
  • 1888 - The Rhode Island State Association of Boroughs holds its first meeting in Westerly.
  • 1899 - Narragansett Pier becomes a popular summer destination for tourists.
  • 1908 - The first plane flies across Washington County's skies, marking the start of aviation in the area.
  • 1944 - The University of Rhode Island opens its Narragansett Bay Campus in South Kingstown.
  • 1959 - The Newport Bridge is completed, linking Jamestown to Washington County and changing the transportation landscape.
  • 1983 - Ninigret Park is established in Charlestown as a recreational area for residents and visitors.