Wickford Village In Rhode Island Is The Oldest Colonial Village In The U S

As one of America’s oldest states, Rhode Island is home to some great historic villages. These time-honored spots tell the story of our past, and some of them have been very well-maintained. Wickford Village is actually the oldest colonial village in the U.S., and we’re lucky to have it right here in the Ocean State.

You’ll find Wickford Village in North Kingstown, where it ha remained since the early 1700s.

hacer dolanbay / Google Lodowick Updike, who was the grandson of early North Kingstown settler Richard Smith, had a grand vision for Wickford Village. While he helped found it, he died before he could ever see it thrive.

The village, which sits right on the peaceful Wickford Cove, continued on thanks to Updike’s five daughters, who sold the land to members of the prominent Phillips and Fowler families.

Chris A / TripAdvisor These families completed Updike’s village and helped to turn it into a solid community.

During the Revolutionary War, this place served as a haven for prominent Newport residents who wanted to escape the British occupation.

61elc / TripAdvisor After the war, the village saw an economic boom, and plenty of taverns, shops, and other businesses opened in the area.

The boom saw its end in the 1830s, when Wickford Village was bypassed by the Providence and Stonington Railroad.

LisaHarlow / TripAdvisor The shipping war with Providence didn’t help matters. The great hurricane of 1938 wreaked havoc on the remaining residents.

But this little community remains a coveted place to live to this day.

Kellyloo64 / TripAdvisor It’s full of artisan shops, boutiques, restaurants, and historic treasures.

Stroll through the streets and you’ll see perfectly preserved historic homes that span several centuries.

Mailgirl / TripAdvisor Visiting here feels like traveling back in time in the best way – you’ll get to experience a taste of what life was like back then, but there are plenty of modern amenities to enjoy.

This little seaside village is only a 20 minute drive from Newport, and it’s a perfect day trip destination.

Sumeru Nayak / Google Most of the businesses here have re-opened, although face coverings and proper social distancing methods are required.

Have you been to Wickford Village lately?

hacer dolanbay / Google

Lodowick Updike, who was the grandson of early North Kingstown settler Richard Smith, had a grand vision for Wickford Village. While he helped found it, he died before he could ever see it thrive.

Chris A / TripAdvisor

These families completed Updike’s village and helped to turn it into a solid community.

61elc / TripAdvisor

After the war, the village saw an economic boom, and plenty of taverns, shops, and other businesses opened in the area.

LisaHarlow / TripAdvisor

The shipping war with Providence didn’t help matters. The great hurricane of 1938 wreaked havoc on the remaining residents.

Kellyloo64 / TripAdvisor

It’s full of artisan shops, boutiques, restaurants, and historic treasures.

Mailgirl / TripAdvisor

Visiting here feels like traveling back in time in the best way – you’ll get to experience a taste of what life was like back then, but there are plenty of modern amenities to enjoy.

Sumeru Nayak / Google

Most of the businesses here have re-opened, although face coverings and proper social distancing methods are required.

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Address: North Kingstown, RI, USA