📍 Location & Geography
Rumford is a charming neighborhood located in the town of East Providence, in Providence County, Rhode Island. It is situated on the eastern side of the Providence River and is bounded by the Ten Mile River to the north and east. The neighborhood is characterized by its suburban setting, with a mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Rumford, Rhode Island are approximately 41.8445° N latitude and 71.3558° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Rumford is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It lies within the town of East Providence, which is the fifth-largest city in the state of Rhode Island. The neighborhood covers a relatively small area, reflecting the overall compactness of Rhode Island, the smallest state in the U.S.
👥 Population & Demographics
As a neighborhood within East Providence, specific population figures for Rumford are not readily available. However, East Providence as a whole has a population of around 47,000 people. The demographic makeup of Rumford is diverse, with a mix of different age groups, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
🏛️ History
Rumford has a rich history dating back to the colonial period. It was originally part of Rehoboth, Massachusetts until it was ceded to Rhode Island in 1862. The neighborhood is named after Count Rumford, an Anglo-American physicist known for his work in the field of heat. Many of the homes and buildings in Rumford reflect its historical roots, with a number of structures dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Rumford is home to several parks and green spaces, providing residents with opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Ten Mile River, which borders the neighborhood, offers scenic views and habitats for local wildlife. Rumford’s environment is typical of suburban New England, with a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, and a moderate climate featuring warm summers and cold winters.
🏫 Education
Rumford is served by the East Providence School District. There are several public and private schools in and around the neighborhood, catering to students from kindergarten through high school. Higher education opportunities are also available in nearby Providence, which is home to several colleges and universities, including Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.
🚧 Transportation
Rumford is well-connected by road, with easy access to Interstate 195 and U.S. Route 44. Public transportation is provided by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, which operates bus routes in and around the neighborhood. The closest major airport is T. F. Green Airport, located approximately 10 miles to the south in Warwick.
📜 Trivia & Events
Rumford is known for its annual Independence Day Parade, a tradition that dates back to the early 20th century. The neighborhood is also home to the Rumford Center, a mixed-use development that was once the site of the Rumford Chemical Works, where baking powder was invented in the mid-19th century. Today, the Rumford Center is a hub of community activity, with shops, restaurants, and residential units.