Rhode Island Atlas

Rhode Island facts and history plus travel and tourism information.

Capital: Providence
Abbreviations: RI (postal), R.I.
Area: 1,045 square miles
State Bird: Rhode Island Red
State Tree: Red Maple
State Flower: Violet
State Motto: Hope
Nickname: The Ocean State

Sunset and Bridge in Newport, Rhode Island

Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA, was once inhabited by Narragansett and other Algonquian-speaking peoples. In 1636, Europeans set up their first permanent settlement in the area at Providence, Rhode Island. Providence's founding was initiated by Roger Williams, a Christian minister, and many people seeking religious freedom settled in Rhode Island. On May 29, 1790, the "State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations" became the 13th state.

With many islands, Rhode Island's economy grew from fishing, shipbuilding, farming, and trade. Textile mills arrived during the 19th century; in the post-World War II era, machinery, jewelry, and silverware were produced in the state. Higher education and service industries are important to the Rhode Island economy today.

At one time, Newport, Rhode Island was a summer playground for the wealthy. While many of Newport's mansions have been preserved for their historic significance, vacationers still enjoy watersports in Narragansett Bay and at the Atlantic Ocean beaches.

Rhode Island Map

Rhode Island Links

1. Rhode Island Government - official Rhode Island state website.
2. Visit Rhode Island - Rhode Island travel and tourism.
3. National Parks in Rhode Island
4. Rhode Island QuickFacts - from the US Census Bureau.
5. 50States.com - Rhode Island

Rhode Island Resources

• Rhode Island Real Estate - real estate information about Rhode Island.
• Rhode Island Colleges and Universities - higher education institutions in Rhode Island.
• Rhode Island Libraries - list of libraries in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island History and Geography