We all know Rhode Island as America’s teeniest state, but that’s just one of many interesting facts about the Ocean State. From donuts to freedom and everything in between, Rhode Island offers so much beyond its size.
Did you know Rhode Island is not even an island? Well, not anymore anyway… The state’s largest island was once called Rhode Island, with the state’s capital being in the nearby settlement at Providence. The large island has since been recognized as Aquidneck Island
Nearly 60% of Rhode Island’s land area is forest! Early settlers cleared timber around Providence so they could plant crops, but there have since been tremendous efforts to reforest the state. For much of its history, though, this agriculture around Providence was memorialized in the state’s name. Although RI is the smallest state, it used to have the longest name! Until November 2020, the official name was the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. Despite the connotations with the word “plantation,” RI became the first American colony to pass a law against slavery in 1652. However, this law was not consistently enforced…
Rhode Island is nicknamed “the Ocean State,” and nearly a third of the state is water! According to the US Geological Survey, 33.1% of the state’s area is water, with Narragansett Bay being the most prominent feature. As a result, sailing is incredibly popular here. Many children attend sailing camps in the summer, and the America’s Cup sailing competition has a stop in Newport. Rhode Island is also renowned for its beaches! Although it is only 48 miles by 37 miles, it has 384 miles of coastline along the waters fed by the warm Gulf Stream. Many tourists have said swimming here is even more enjoyable than at nearby Cape Cod.
Back on land, did you know the RI state house in Providence features the world’s 4th largest self-supported marble dome? Providence is also home to Brown University (along with 13 other institutions of higher ed), Fortune 500 companies, a thriving culture scene, and America’s oldest Baptist congregation. That one was founded by Roger Williams shortly after he founded the colony.
By the way, what is with all of these Mr. Potato Heads? Idaho may have famous potatoes, but RI arguably has the most famous potato of all. Rhode Island based Hasbro began selling Mr. Potato Head toys in the 1950s, and in 2000 the state named it their “official travel ambassador!” Giant fiberglass Mr. Potato Heads were built, sent around the state, and decorated by local artists.
See this Dunkin’ potato? Providence also has the most donut shops per person of any US city. Donuts are far more popular than cannolis, despite RI being the second most Italian state. Roughly 16.3% of Rhode Islanders claim Italian descent, which is second only to neighbor Connecticut’s 16.5% .
Do you have more fun facts about Rhode Island? Please share them with us in the comments!