📍 Location & Geography
Block Island is located in Washington County, Rhode Island, United States. It is an island town situated in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 13 miles south of the Rhode Island coast and 14 miles east of Montauk Point, Long Island, New York. The island covers a total area of 9.734 square miles, of which 6.57 square miles is land and 3.16 square miles is water. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, coastal bluffs, and sandy beaches.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Block Island are approximately 41.1617° N latitude and 71.5843° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Block Island is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is the smallest town in the smallest state in the U.S. The island is divided into a northern and a southern region, separated by the Great Salt Pond. The northern region is more developed with the majority of the island’s businesses and homes, while the southern region is largely preserved as part of the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Block Island has a population of approximately 1,051 residents. The population tends to increase significantly during the summer months due to tourism. The majority of the population is White, with a small percentage of other races. The median age of residents is around 50 years, and the island has a slightly higher percentage of female residents than male.
🏛️ History
Block Island was originally inhabited by the Niantic tribe of Native Americans. It was first sighted by European explorers in 1614 and named after Dutch explorer Adriaen Block. In 1661, settlers from the Massachusetts Bay Colony purchased the island and renamed it New Shoreham, which remains the official name of the town today. The island has a rich maritime history and was once a bustling port for the whaling industry.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Block Island is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The Block Island National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1973, covers 127 acres of the island and provides habitat for a variety of bird species. The island is also home to several rare and endangered plant species. The island’s coastline offers stunning cliffs, beautiful beaches, and the iconic Mohegan Bluffs.
🏫 Education
Block Island School, a public school, serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The school has a small student body, reflecting the island’s small population. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum, including arts, sciences, and physical education.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation to Block Island is primarily by ferry, with services from Point Judith, Rhode Island, New London, Connecticut, and Montauk, New York. The island also has a small airport, Block Island State Airport, which offers flights to and from Westerly, Rhode Island. On the island, transportation options include biking, walking, taxis, and car rentals.
📜 Trivia & Events
Block Island is known for its annual Fourth of July Parade and celebration. The island also hosts a popular road race each August, attracting runners from across the country. An interesting fact about Block Island is that it is home to the Southeast Lighthouse, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1997. The island is also known for its wind farm, the first offshore wind farm in the United States.