South Kingstown at a Glance


 

 

 

 

 

South Kingstown has 27,921 people
It covers 40,194.6 acres of land

A colonial settlement in South Kingstown marked the beginning of development in what is now southern Rhode Island. It was here that King Philip was first defeated by colonial soldiers from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut in the Great Swamp Fight of 1675.

An agricultural settlement from the very beginning, South Kingstown flourished in the farming industry. The main agricultural product was flax, expanding to include vegetables and turf in more recent times. The industrial revolution brought manufacturing to the forefront of industry: the Wakefield Manufacturing Company started operation in 1800 along with the Peace Dale Mill. Indeed, manufacturing grew to be one of the town's largest industries.

In 1892, the Rhode Island College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts was founded near Kingston and marked a historic addition of trade and practical training to South Kingstown's burgeoning industry. The school grew to become the University of Rhode Island, becoming more diverse in its focus as well as scope. The University plays a major role in the economic and cultural community of South Kingstown.


South Kingstown features a beautiful shoreline and many beach areas, which was drawn an influx of developers and residential expansion. The many seasonal residences have allowed tourism to grow into a major industry in the town.

Government: there are 5 members on the Town Council, which meets regularly. There is a Planning Board, Zoning Board of Review, Conservation Commission, Historic District Commission, Recreation Commission, and several others. Also, South Kingstown employs a full-time planner and a Global Information Systems (GIS) expert.





click map to enlarge [RIGIS]

This map shows the Chipuxet subbasin along with important town facilities and the public water supply system, which is mainly in the most developed region of Wakefield and Peacedale.

 

 

Click here for information about how to get involved in South Kingstown's development.
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