Town of Westerly

Updated Demographic and Economic Characteristics

* Annual information for 2000-2008 is available by downloading this Excel file

Government

Town Hall
Broad St,
Westerly, RI 02891
Fax: 401-596-2906
Hours: 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Census 2000 Data

A summary profile of Census 2000 characteristics is available from the RI Office of Statewide Planning at: http://www.planning.ri.gov/census/citytown.htm

Community Links

Hyperlink provided by the Office of Municipal Affairs, Rhode Island Department of Administration.

History

Located in the southwestern corner of the state, the town of Westerly has an atmosphere of an old New England village. Westerly has a history unique in the annals of U.S. history. Westerly was the first town incorporated in the King's province on May 13, 1669, and was the fifth town in the colony. On the 23rd of June 1686, the name was changed from Westerly to Haversham, but the former name was restored in 1689. The towns of Charlestown, Hopkinton and Richmond were later taken from the town of Westerly.  In its early days, Westerly was the frontier town of the colony. Out of this beginning many diversified industries grew, but Westerly has been best known for the granite that was once taken from its quarries, for building purposes in neighboring towns and cities, and for monuments in various parts of the country.  Westerly is also known as a vacation area. The location of Watch Hill — almost surrounded by the ocean and bay with beautiful formation of rocks and sand beaches — contribute to its beauty. The winds bring in the cool bracing sea air and the temperature in the summer is rarely oppressive. Rowing, swimming, ocean sailing, fishing and hiking make this a favorite resort area.


Contact Information