The Historic Small Town That Every Rhode Islander Should Visit At Least Once

Rhode Island is absolutely packed with history. Everywhere you look is a historic plaque or statue or a house from the 17th century. Saunderstown is one of the most historic small towns in Rhode Island that everyone should visit at least once. This little hamlet is a historic district located in Washington County, in the towns of Narragansett and North Kingstown. It is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is a U.S. Historic District. Check out some of the great reasons to make a day of it in Saunderstown.

The historic district is loaded with quaint homes and shops.

This country store on Boston Neck Road in the historic district was built in 1914.

Saunderstown is best known for being the birthplace of Gilbert Stuart, the artist who painted the portrait of George Washington that is on our dollar bills. The house is now open to the public as a museum. It features the restored and furnished 1750 home, a working grist mill, gardens, and woodland walking trails.

Pictured here is the Gilbert Stuart Birthplace.

You'll also be able to see the Gilbert Stuart Snuffmill, a huge wooden snuffmill was used to grind locally grown tobacco in colonial times.

Casey Farm is an 18th-century plantation that is operated by Historic New England. The farm grows organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers in a Community Agriculture Program.

Pictured here is the historic Casey Farm House of Saunderstown in Rhode Island.

Casey Farm Cemetery is another historic site you must see when you visit the town.

Look at this historic picture of Saunderstown and the old trolley. The Sea View Line electric trolley at Sea View Station in Saunderstown near Narragansett Pier was built in 1898 and extended to East Greenwich in 1900 and to Wakefield and Peace Dale in 1902.

Even the library is adorable. The Willett Free Library is open Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. until 6 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon.

Saunderstown is located directly on Narragansett Bay and has been enjoyed by sailors for centuries.

Shipbuilding was a major trade as well. Saunderstown was home to many colonial shipyards due to its prime waterfront location.

With all of the historic sites, there are certainly plenty of things to do in Saunderstown. As one of the most historic towns in Rhode Island, it packs an incredible amount of history into one small area. It's a great place to bring the kids and spend a day soaking up Rhode Island's colonial past, and some notable Rhode Islanders with major contributions to American history.

While a day trip to Saunderstown is always a wonderful option, how about a getaway instead? Check out this family-friendly cottage located just a short drive to the beach.