Wickford Village Is The Oldest Colonial Village In The Country, And It’s Right Here In Rhode Island

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?