📍 Location & Geography
Little Compton is a charming town located in the southeastern part of the state of Rhode Island, United States. It is part of Newport County and is surrounded by the Sakonnet River to the east, the town of Tiverton to the north, and the state of Massachusetts to the west and south. Little Compton is known for its rural character and scenic beauty, featuring a mix of farmland, forests, and coastal areas.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Little Compton, Rhode Island are approximately 41.5101° N latitude and 71.0737° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Little Compton is part of the New England region of the United States. The town covers a total area of 57.9 square miles (150 km2), of which 20.0 square miles (52 km2) is land and 37.9 square miles (98 km2) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Little Compton had a population of 3,492 people. The population is predominantly white, making up about 97.6% of the total. The median age in the town is 50.2 years, indicating a slightly older demographic compared to the national average.
🏛️ History
Little Compton was originally inhabited by the Sakonnet Indians. The first European settlers arrived in 1675 and incorporated the town in 1682. The town was part of Massachusetts until 1747 when it was transferred to Rhode Island. Little Compton has a rich agricultural history and many of its original colonial houses and farms are still standing today, offering a glimpse into its past.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Little Compton boasts a variety of natural landscapes, from its scenic coastline to its lush farmland. The town is home to Goosewing Beach Preserve, a beautiful coastal area known for its rare and endangered beach-nesting birds. The area is also known for its vineyards and apple orchards, contributing to its rural charm.
🏫 Education
Education in Little Compton is managed by the Little Compton School Department. The town has one elementary school, Wilbur & McMahon School, which serves students from kindergarten through 8th grade. High school students typically attend Portsmouth High School in the neighboring town of Portsmouth.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Little Compton is primarily by car, as the town is somewhat rural and does not have a public transportation system. The nearest major airport is T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, about 30 miles away. The town is also accessible by several state highways, including Route 77 and Route 81.
📜 Trivia & Events
Little Compton is known for its annual events such as the Little Compton Antiques Festival and Classic Auto Show, and the Little Compton 5k Walk/Run. The town is also home to the Little Compton Historical Society, which preserves and promotes the history of the town. A notable trivia is that Little Compton is the birthplace of Elizabeth Pabodie, the first white girl born in New England.