The history of two Washington County towns (townships) -- Charlestown and Westerly -- are recalled through a mixture of colorful tales and factual data in this 50 page spiral-bound booklet, reprinted from two hard-to-find books: History of the State of Rhode Island published in 1878 by Hoag, Wade and Co., Philadelphia, and Rhode Island, a Guide to the Smallest State, a WPA project published in 1937. The booklet measures 11" x 8 1/2" and is printed one-sided on 60# paper. A clear vinyl sheet has been added to protect cover, which is printed in copper, dark blue and black on Natural Skytone Parchtone stock. Charlestown includes: Charlestown (Cross's Mills), Carolina Mills, Kenyon's Mills Westerly includes: Avondale, Dorrville, Lottery Village, Misquamicut, Potter Hill, Stillmanville, Watch Hill, Weekapaug, Westerly, White Rock Village. The 1878 book excerpts cover the early development of this area, while passages from the WPA book, give a nostalgic glimpse from a later vantage point, including interesting historical notes, especially as they relate to sightseeing possibilities. Among the many and diverse subjects taken from these books are: Physical features and geological traits; Early Settlers and Population Origins; the Niantics, Narragansett and Pequot Indians; First Town Officers; an early attempt at gun making; an Old Indian Burying Ground; the Charlestown Library; Secret Societies and their Officers; Public Halls; Educational Facilities; Churches; Slavery; the first chaise; the Terrible Gale of 1815; Reminiscences, including a rope-pulling demonstration and how a bound servant obtained his freedom; ship building; public houses; the first newspaper; Inventions; Banks, Corporations, and Manufactories, an 1878 map of Rhode Island; walking tours of Waverly with many points of interest described; the Old Whipping Post Farm; Pork barrels, potato bins and politicians; Child Crying Rocks; the Wreck of the Belle R. Heull; and other interesting bits of history and trivia.
Charlestown and Westerly, RI
only $10.00
Sources: History of the State of Rhode Island / Charlestown and Westerly
Authors: John Warner Barber
Original Publication Year: 1878
Original Publisher: Hoag, Wade and Co.
See Description for more info.
