📍 Location & Geography
Charlestown is a charming coastal town located in Washington County, Rhode Island, United States. The town is situated in the southern part of the state, along the Atlantic Ocean. It is bordered by the towns of Westerly to the west, Richmond to the north, and South Kingstown to the east. Charlestown is characterized by its sandy beaches, salt ponds, and diverse natural habitats.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Charlestown, Rhode Island are approximately 41.38° N latitude and 71.64° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Charlestown is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of approximately 59.3 square miles (153.6 km²), of which about 36.8 square miles (95.3 km²) is land and 22.5 square miles (58.3 km²) is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 Census, the population of Charlestown was 7,827. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 45 years. The racial makeup of the town is primarily White, with smaller populations of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races.
🏛️ History
Charlestown was first incorporated in 1738. It was named after King Charles II and was originally a part of Westerly, Rhode Island. The town was divided into two parts during the American Revolutionary War, with the eastern part being loyal to the British and the western part supporting the American revolutionaries. Charlestown has a rich Native American history and was once the site of the Narragansett tribe’s main settlement.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Charlestown is known for its beautiful natural environment, featuring a mix of coastal beaches, forests, and wetlands. The town is home to several nature preserves and parks, including the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge and Burlingame State Park. The area is rich in biodiversity, providing habitats for a variety of wildlife species.
🏫 Education
The education system in Charlestown is managed by the Chariho Regional School District, which also serves the neighboring towns of Richmond and Hopkinton. The district operates several elementary schools, a middle school, and Chariho Regional High School. For higher education, the University of Rhode Island is located nearby in Kingston.
🚧 Transportation
Charlestown is accessible via U.S. Route 1, which runs through the town. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus services connecting Charlestown to other parts of the state. The nearest major airport is T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, about 40 miles north of Charlestown.
📜 Trivia & Events
Charlestown is home to the annual Seafood Festival, which celebrates the town’s maritime heritage and local seafood. The town also hosts the Charlestown Powwow, a Native American cultural event that attracts visitors from across the region. One interesting fact about Charlestown is that it has the highest percentage of Native American residents in Rhode Island.