📍 Location & Geography
Barrington is a suburban, residential town located in Bristol County, Rhode Island. The town is situated in the eastern part of the state and is bordered by the Warren River to the north, Narragansett Bay to the west, and the Palmer River to the south. Barrington’s terrain is mostly flat with some low hills, and the town is known for its tree-lined streets and waterfront views.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Barrington, Rhode Island are approximately 41.74 degrees north latitude and 71.31 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Barrington is part of the Providence metropolitan area, which is the largest metropolitan area in Rhode Island. The town spans an area of 15.4 square miles, of which 8.4 square miles is land and 7.0 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Barrington had a population of approximately 16,310. The town is predominantly white, making up about 92% of the population. The remaining population is made up of Asian (3.9%), African American (1.3%), and other races. The median age in Barrington is 43.4 years, and the town has a slightly higher female population (52%) compared to males (48%).
🏛️ History
Barrington was incorporated in 1770 and was named after Barrington, Somerset, in England. The town was originally part of Massachusetts but was ceded to Rhode Island in 1747. Barrington has a rich history dating back to the colonial period, with several historic landmarks, including the Barrington Preservation Society Museum and the Nayatt Point Lighthouse.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Barrington is known for its beautiful natural environment, featuring numerous parks, trails, and waterfront areas. The town is home to the Barrington Town Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months. The East Bay Bike Path, a 14.5-mile trail that runs through Barrington, offers scenic views of the Narragansett Bay and is popular for biking, walking, and jogging.
🏫 Education
Barrington is served by the Barrington Public Schools district, which includes four elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The town is known for its strong educational system, with Barrington High School consistently ranked among the top high schools in Rhode Island. Barrington is also home to the Barrington College, a private Christian liberal arts college.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Barrington is primarily by car, with Interstate 195 providing easy access to Providence and other major cities in the region. The town is also served by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), which provides bus service to Providence and other parts of the state. The East Bay Bike Path provides a non-motorized transportation option for residents and visitors.
📜 Trivia & Events
Barrington hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Barrington Art Festival and the Barrington Summer Concert Series. The town is also known for its Fourth of July Parade, which is one of the oldest and largest in Rhode Island. Trivia enthusiasts might be interested to know that Barrington was the hometown of the late American novelist, Donald Barr, who was the author of the popular science fiction series, “Space Relations”.