📍 Location & Geography
Jamestown is a town in Newport County, Rhode Island, United States. It is situated on Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay. The island is the second largest in the bay and is connected to the mainland by the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge to the west and the Newport Pell Bridge to the east. The town’s geography is characterized by coastal features, rolling hills, and lush greenery.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Jamestown, Rhode Island are approximately 41.5 degrees north latitude and 71.4 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Jamestown is part of the New England region of the United States. The town covers a total area of 35.3 square miles, of which 9.7 square miles is land and 25.6 square miles is water. The island is approximately 9 miles long and 1 mile wide.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Jamestown has a population of approximately 5,400 residents. The town has a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic, Asian, African American, or other races. The median age in the town is around 46 years.
🏛️ History
Jamestown was incorporated in 1678 and was named after James, Duke of York, who later became King James II of England. The town was primarily an agricultural community until the late 19th century when it began to develop as a summer resort destination. It has a rich maritime history and was once a major hub for ferry service in Narragansett Bay.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Jamestown is known for its scenic beauty and natural attractions. The town is home to several parks and nature preserves, including Beavertail State Park, which offers stunning ocean views, hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse. The island’s coastline is dotted with rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and marshlands, providing diverse habitats for a variety of wildlife.
🏫 Education
Jamestown is served by the Jamestown School District, which operates two schools: Melrose School for students in kindergarten through 4th grade, and Lawn School for students in 5th through 8th grade. High school students typically attend school in the nearby town of North Kingstown. The town also has a public library, the Jamestown Philomenian Library.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Jamestown is facilitated by a network of state highways, including Route 138 which runs across the island. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority provides bus service to the town. The closest major airport is T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, about 20 miles away. The town also has several marinas for boating and sailing.
📜 Trivia & Events
Jamestown is home to several annual events, including the Jamestown Rhode Race, a popular marathon that attracts runners from all over the country. The town also hosts the Fools’ Rules Regatta, a fun event where participants race homemade boats. A notable piece of trivia is that Jamestown was used as a filming location for the 1974 film adaptation of “The Great Gatsby”.