Rhode Island is a little state with a big name. Covering only 1,214 square miles of America’s New England region, it bears the distinction of being the smallest of all the states. But what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in numerous other ways. It is distinguished as being the first of America’s original 13 colonies to declare independence from British rule. “The Ocean State,” as it has been dubbed for its ample share of shoreline, presents a one-of-a-kind way of life.
      Those relocating to Rhode Island have 39 cities and towns to choose from. The state capital and largest city, Providence, is home to approximately 180,000 people and serves as the economic, cultural and political hub of Rhode Island. Warwick, Cranston and Pawtucket are all popular residential areas as well. Rhode Island’s landscape is largely defined by the Narragansett Bay, an arm of the Atlantic Ocean that reaches far into the center of the state and is home to three large islands.
      Aquidneck, the most prevalent and well-known island, is home to historic Newport, a popular tourist destination which features sprawling oceanfront estates, seasonal yacht races and jazz festivals. The neighboring island of Conanicut is home to the popular resort town, Jamestown and located near the center of the bay is Prudence, the smallest of the three islands. If Narragansett is an arm then Greenwich Bay, Providence River and Mount Hope Bay are its fingers, as well as the dozens of coves and inlets of rivers and streams surrounding the bay.

Did You Know...

State Nickname: The Ocean State State Capital: Providence State Flower: Violet State Bird: Rhode Island Red

      About 12 miles south of the mainland, secluded Block Island is known for its windswept land and rugged bluffs. The gently rolling hills of the west and northwest include Jerimoth Hill, the state's highest point at only 812 feet. The Scituate Reservoir is the largest inland body of water. Even though Rhode Island is highly urbanized, more than half the state is lush forest, and with all that water, no

resident of Rhode Island is more than a half hour’s scenic drive to the shore. It is this balanced combination of metropolitan progress and unspoiled nature that gives this little state such a big personality.
      The minute size of this state makes for a robust culture of diverse people from all walks of life. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2005, the state’s population of 1.2 million makes it the second most densely populated in the nation. From their distinct accents to their signature local dishes,
Rhode Islanders have a style all their own. The largest percentage of residents in the state is of Italian descent, many of which live in Providence. In fact, Rhode Island has a higher percentage of both people of Italian and Portuguese heritage than any other state in the country. Other prominent ancestry groups are Irish, French and English.
      Yet another distinction claimed by Rhode Island is its reputation for being the place the textile industry got its start. The first water mill was invented in Pawtucket by a man named Samuel Slater. This mill, which was powered by the Blackstone River, started America’s Industrial Revolution and brought wealth to the Ocean State. Today the state is known for crafting silverware and fine jewelry as well as electronics, metal and plastic. Boat and ship construction is another important industry in Rhode Island. Others work in health, medicine and marine science. Some regions subsist on agriculture, fishing ports and tourism, which generates over $1 billion of the state’s revenue each year.

Scholars in Rhode Island can choose from several continuing education facilities, including the University of Road Island in Kingston and Rhode Island College in Providence. The state also takes pride in its award-winning public school districts and special needs educational facilities.
      Recreational opportunities abound in the state of Rhode Island. Yachting, fishing, boating and swimming are among the most popular pastimes. Endless miles of unspoiled beaches and picturesque parks provide an outdoor enthusiast with a year-round playground of activities. There is no shortage of indoor entertainment, either. Shopping, museums, art galleries, theaters and exciting nightclubs are within easy reach no matter where you live in Rhode Island.
      With an excellent transportation infrastructure, statewide low crime rate and four brilliant seasons of natural beauty to enjoy, Rhode Island’s population continues to thrive. Rhode Island is an ideal place to raise children, spend your retirement, and everything in between.