City of Providence

Providence is the state capital, the largest city in Rhode Island, and one of the first cities established in America. Once a seafaring and trading town, the city has survived the economic decline that began after World War II to become one of New England's major commercial, financial, and industrial centers as well as one of the largest jewelry manufacturers in the country. Situated at the head of Narragansett Bay on the Providence River near the Atlantic coast, the city is intersected by two rivers and has a population of 173,618 (Year 2000). Annual average temperature is around 51.1° F. Summer weather is seasonably warm and tempered by ocean breezes. Spring and autumn are mild and sunny, and winters are moderately cold.

Providence was founded in 1636 by Roger Williams, a religious exile who named the area in honor of "God's merciful Providence". Providence began as an agricultural community, soon gaining popularity in the country for a town of religious freedom. When the first dock was built in 1680, the stage was set for a major commercial economy and the city soon began lucrative trading, outrunning other cities of the area such as Newport.


A relaxed and cosmopolitan city, Providence in recent years has turned two rivers back to their natural courses and created a riverwalk and a downtown park called Waterplace. Providence also facilitates many swimming pools, 52 acres of natural areas, Miles of paved and unpaved hiking and biking trails, with the Community Aquatic Center, Near Percy Priest Lake, Old Hickory Lake, Near Long Hunter State Park and Sgt. Jerry Mundy Memorial Park providing ample leisure activities to the whole family.