• Hopkinton's History:

Hopkinton was established in 1669, as a part of the Town of Westerly, but was incorporated as its own town on March 14, 1757. Hopkinton was named in honor of Stephen Hopkins, who was then Governor of Rhode Island, and also a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Today, Hopkinton maintains its rural character. Recreation within the town includes fresh water fishing, hiking, scenic parks, and numerous campgrounds. Hopkinton is a popular vacation area and is convenient to miles of ocean front beaches. Camp Yawgoog, operated by the Narragansett Council, Boy Scouts of America, and located in Rockville, is one of the largest Boy Scout camps in the United States.

• Population:

7,836 residents (census 2000)

• Growth Projections:

At Buildout, Hopkinton could have a population of 17,000 (Katherine Maxwell, Hopkinton Town Planner)

Since 1990, Hopkinton's population has grown by 14%. (census 2000) This growth is projected to continue.

• Density:

182 persons per square mile (census 2000), which is an increase from 156 persons per square mile in 1990. (census 1990)

• Area:

44.3 square miles (Grow Smart RI)

• Points of Interest:

Ell Pond/Long Pond Preserve
Villages of Hope Valley, Ashaway, and Hopkinton
Scenic roads and trails
Yawgoog Boyscout Camp
Working farms and rural character