📍 Location & Geography
Saunderstown is a small, picturesque village located in the U.S. state of Rhode Island. It is situated in Washington County and is part of the town of North Kingstown to the west and the town of Narragansett to the east. Saunderstown is located on the west side of Narragansett Bay, offering beautiful views of the water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Saunderstown, Rhode Island are approximately 41.5 degrees North latitude and 71.4 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Saunderstown is located in the southern part of Rhode Island, a state in the New England region of the United States. The village covers a relatively small area, typical of many New England communities, and is predominantly residential in nature.
👥 Population & Demographics
As Saunderstown is a village, it’s not separately enumerated in the U.S. Census. However, the larger town of North Kingstown, which Saunderstown is part of, has a population of approximately 26,486 as of the 2010 census. The demographic makeup is predominantly White, with a significant portion of the population also identifying as Hispanic or Latino.
🏛️ History
Saunderstown was first settled in the late 17th century and was originally known as Willett’s Neck. It was later renamed after the Saunders family who operated businesses in the area. The village has a rich maritime history and was once a major shipbuilding center. The birthplace of the famous American artist Gilbert Stuart is located in Saunderstown and is now a museum.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Saunderstown is known for its scenic beauty, with views of the Narragansett Bay and plenty of green spaces. The area features a mix of forests, fields, and wetlands, providing habitats for a variety of wildlife. The coastline also offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based recreational activities.
🏫 Education
Education in Saunderstown is provided by the North Kingstown School District. The district operates several elementary, middle, and high schools, offering quality education to students in the area. For higher education, the University of Rhode Island is located just a short drive away in Kingston.
🚧 Transportation
Saunderstown is conveniently located near several major highways, including Route 1 and Route 138, providing easy access to other parts of Rhode Island and neighboring states. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority also operates bus services in the area. The closest major airport is T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, which is approximately 20 miles north of Saunderstown.
📜 Trivia & Events
Saunderstown is home to the Gilbert Stuart Museum, the birthplace of the famous portrait artist Gilbert Stuart who is best known for his portrait of George Washington. The museum hosts several events throughout the year, including art exhibitions and historical reenactments. The village also hosts an annual Saunderstown Village Fair, which features local artisans, live music, and family-friendly activities.