Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island, Rhode Island photo

History and Naming

In 1524, Block Island came to be thanks to a European man by the name of Giovanni de Verrazzano. The island was named after a Dutch navigator who later found it in 1614. From there, sixteen English families from Massachusetts in 1661-1664 and it became part of the English colony of Rhode Island. The oldest known gravestone was that of Margaret Guthry in 1687. 

Fun Facts

  • The Island Free Library is still running today was founded in 1875
  • In 1895, the Great Salt Pond Channel was dug thus creating New Harbor
  • Running an office out of his bedroom, the first postmaster was appointed in 1832
  • Block Island School was built in 1933, replacing 5 one-room schools
  • IN 1972, the Block Island Conservancy was founded and since the, a third of the island is still protected from development
  • The first postmaster, maintaining an office out of his bedroom, was appointed in 1832.
  • Because the Island is surrounded by dangerous shoals and ledges,
    dozens of vessels went down near here in the years before 2 lighthouses
    were built on the island.

Plan your Trip

To make the most of your trip, make sure to you don’t miss out on these amazing adventures!

Mohegan Bluffs is one of the best spots. There are 141 steps to walk that take you to a breathtaking rocky beach with gorgeous views. I would not recommend swimming, but it is great for a day hike to enjou the beach below.

Paddle Board on one of the salt ponds that traverse throughout the island. Kayak and paddle
board rentals are at multiple spots on the island and fairly
reasonable. 

We spend a lot of time at the beach on Block Island.  My favorites are Scotch and Crescent Beach, but Mansion is also pretty and scenic. 

A visit to the North and South Lighthouses are a favorite. You can walk the beach at North Light and even see the seals swimming.

Go clamming or paddle board at Andy’s Way
and take in the beauty of the protected salt marsh pond that leads into
Great Salt Pond. It’s a good spot to look for birds, crabs and fish,
too. 

Hiking — there are so
many trails around the island. I love the trails by Rodman’s Hollow, but
others such as Hodge and Clay Head are popular.

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