East Providence Live Cam
Located from Kettle Point, an apartment community located in Providence County
History
East Providence is a city located in the state of Rhode Island, United States. It is situated in Providence County and is bordered by the city of Providence to the west and the Seekonk River to the east. The history of East Providence is closely intertwined with the early settlement and development of the region.
The area that is now East Providence was originally inhabited by the Wampanoag and Narragansett Native American tribes. European settlement in the area began in the early 17th century when the Plymouth Colony established trading posts along the Seekonk River. These trading posts served as a hub for fur trading and interaction between the Native Americans and European settlers.
In 1644, a group of settlers from the Massachusetts Bay Colony established a permanent settlement in the area, which they named Rehoboth. Rehoboth encompassed a larger area that included parts of present-day East Providence, Seekonk, and surrounding areas. Over time, the settlement expanded, and in 1812, the western part of Rehoboth split off to form the town of Seekonk.
In the late 19th century, industrialization played a significant role in the development of East Providence. The area became a center for manufacturing and commerce, particularly in the textile industry. The construction of mills and factories along the waterfront of the Seekonk River fueled economic growth and attracted a growing population to the area.
On March 16, 1862, East Providence was officially incorporated as a separate town from Rehoboth. The new town prospered, and by the early 20th century, it became a prominent industrial center. The manufacturing sector diversified, with industries such as metalworking, machinery, and printing emerging alongside textiles.
In 1958, East Providence became a city, solidifying its status as an independent municipality. Over the years, the city has continued to evolve and adapt to changing economic trends. Today, East Providence is a vibrant community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. It is known for its diverse neighborhoods, recreational amenities, and its close proximity to the city of Providence.
The historical significance of East Providence is evident in its architecture, landmarks, and cultural heritage. The city boasts several notable sites, including the Looff Carousel at Crescent Park, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Crescent Park itself was a popular amusement park in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
In summary, East Providence has a rich history that dates back to the early colonial period. From its origins as part of the Rehoboth settlement to its industrial boom and subsequent transformation into a city, East Providence has played a significant role in the development of Rhode Island. Today, it stands as a thriving community with a proud heritage and a promising future.
Top Tourist Attractions
East Providence offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in East Providence:
- Crescent Park Looff Carousel: Located in the historic Crescent Park, this beautifully restored carousel is a must-visit attraction. It dates back to the early 20th century and features hand-carved horses and chariots. The carousel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- East Bay Bike Path: This scenic bike path stretches for 14.5 miles along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the waterfront and the Seekonk River. It is a popular spot for walking, jogging, biking, and rollerblading.
- Pierce Memorial Stadium: If you're a sports enthusiast, Pierce Memorial Stadium is worth a visit. It is a multipurpose outdoor stadium that hosts various sporting events, including high school football games and community events.
- Agawam Hunt: This historic golf course and country club provide an excellent opportunity for golf enthusiasts to enjoy a round of golf. The club has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century and offers a scenic and challenging golfing experience.
- Seekonk Speedway: Located just across the state line in Seekonk, Massachusetts, Seekonk Speedway is a popular attraction for racing fans. It hosts various racing events, including stock car races and demolition derbies.
- Bold Point Park: Situated along the waterfront, Bold Point Park offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and events. The park features a concert venue that hosts live performances during the summer months.
- Ten Mile River Greenway: This greenway provides a serene escape into nature, with a trail that follows the Ten Mile River. It is ideal for walking, jogging, and biking, and offers beautiful scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Haines Memorial State Park: Located on the shore of the Seekonk River, this park offers picnic areas, walking trails, and fishing opportunities. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the waterfront views.
- Seekonk Grand Prix: Located just over the border in Seekonk, Massachusetts, Seekonk Grand Prix is an amusement park featuring go-kart racing, mini-golf, batting cages, and arcade games. It's a fun destination for families and thrill-seekers.
- Kimberly Rock Athletic Fields: This sports complex provides excellent facilities for soccer, baseball, and softball. It offers well-maintained fields and a playground area for children.
These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in East Providence. The city's proximity to Providence also allows visitors to explore the attractions and cultural offerings of the capital city, including museums, art galleries, historic sites, and a vibrant culinary scene.
Climate
East Providence experiences a humid continental climate. The region enjoys all four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. Here are some key characteristics of the climate in East Providence:
- Summers (June to August): Summers in East Providence are warm and humid. Average high temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to high 20s Celsius), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures into the 90s Fahrenheit (30s Celsius). Humidity levels can be moderate to high during this time, and thunderstorms are not uncommon.
- Autumns (September to November): Autumn brings cooler temperatures to East Providence. In September, temperatures remain mild, with highs in the 70s Fahrenheit (low 20s Celsius). As the season progresses, temperatures gradually drop, with highs in the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10s to 20s Celsius) in November. Fall foliage is particularly beautiful in the area, attracting visitors to enjoy the vibrant colors.
- Winters (December to February): Winters in East Providence are cold and snowy. Average high temperatures range from the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 0 to 5 degrees Celsius), while overnight lows can drop into the 20s Fahrenheit (around -5 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common during this season, with the area receiving an average of 30 to 40 inches (76 to 102 cm) of snow annually.
- Springs (March to May): Springs in East Providence start off cool but gradually warm up. March sees highs in the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (around 5 to 15 degrees Celsius), while by May, temperatures climb into the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 15 to 20 degrees Celsius). Spring is also a wetter season, with occasional rain showers.
It's important to note that these are general climate trends, and actual weather conditions can vary from year to year. It is advisable to check local weather forecasts for up-to-date and specific information when planning a visit to East Providence.
Geography
It occupies an area of approximately 16 square miles (41 square kilometers) and is situated on the eastern bank of the Seekonk River. The city is bordered by the city of Providence to the west, the Seekonk River to the east, and the town of Barrington to the south.
- The Seekonk River serves as a natural boundary between East Providence and the neighboring city of Providence. It is a tidal river that flows into Narragansett Bay, providing picturesque waterfront views and recreational opportunities.
- The topography of East Providence is relatively flat, with a gradual elevation increase as you move away from the river. The city's elevation ranges from sea level along the river to approximately 100 feet (30 meters) above sea level in some parts of the city.
- The city is characterized by a mix of urban, suburban, and residential areas. Its neighborhoods vary in terms of architecture and layout, with a combination of historic homes, modern developments, and commercial districts. The coastline along the Seekonk River offers marinas, parks, and recreational spaces.
- East Providence has several parks and green spaces, including the historic Crescent Park, which is home to the Looff Carousel. Other notable parks include the Agawam Hunt Club, Haines Memorial State Park, and the Ten Mile River Greenway, which provides a scenic trail along the Ten Mile River.
- Transportation in East Providence is facilitated by major roadways such as Interstate 195, which connects the city to nearby Providence and other parts of Rhode Island. The East Bay Bike Path also runs through East Providence, offering a scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians along the coast.
Overall, East Providence's geography is defined by its location along the Seekonk River, its mix of urban and suburban areas, and its accessibility to nearby cities and natural landscapes.