📍 Location & Geography
Westerly is a picturesque town located in Washington County, the southwesternmost and southernmost town in the state of Rhode Island, United States. It is situated along the southern shoreline of Rhode Island, bordering the Pawcatuck River and the Atlantic Ocean. The town covers a total area of 74.8 square miles, of which 30.1 square miles is land and 44.7 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Westerly, Rhode Island, are approximately 41.37 degrees North latitude and 71.83 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Westerly is part of the Providence metropolitan area, despite being located on the opposite side of the state. The town is divided into several distinct villages and neighborhoods, including Westerly Town Center, Bradford, White Rock, Dunn’s Corners, and Misquamicut.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Westerly has a population of approximately 22,500 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a significant number of families and a strong senior community. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Westerly was first settled by English colonists in 1661 and was officially incorporated in 1669. The town’s name, chosen by the settlers, was inspired by the location’s position relative to Rhode Island’s geography – it was the most westerly town in the state. Westerly has a rich history, with its downtown area listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town is also known for its granite industry, which thrived in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Westerly is known for its beautiful beaches, including Misquamicut State Beach and Watch Hill Beach. The town is also home to several parks and nature preserves, including Wilcox Park, a 14-acre park located in downtown Westerly, and the Avondale Farm Preserve. The Pawcatuck River, which forms the border between Rhode Island and Connecticut, offers opportunities for boating and fishing.
🏫 Education
The Westerly Public Schools district serves the town, including Westerly High School, Westerly Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town is also home to St. Pius X Regional Academy, a private Catholic school. For higher education, residents have access to the Community College of Rhode Island’s Westerly Education Center.
🚧 Transportation
Westerly is served by the Westerly State Airport, offering general aviation services. The town is also connected to the Amtrak Northeast Corridor, with the Westerly station providing train service to destinations such as Boston and New York City. Interstate 95 passes just north of Westerly, providing easy access to other parts of the state and region.
📜 Trivia & Events
Westerly is known for its vibrant arts scene, with the United Theatre and the Granite Theatre offering live performances and film screenings. The town hosts several annual events, including the Summer Pops concert and the Shakespeare in the Park series. Westerly is also home to the Bricks and Murals project, a collection of over 100 murals painted on downtown buildings that depict the town’s history and culture.