Town of Cumberland
Updated Demographic and Economic Characteristics
* Annual information for 2000-2006 is available by downloading this Excel file
Government
Cumberland Town Hall
45 Broad St.
Cumberland, RI 02864
Fax: 401-724-3311
Hours: 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.*, summer: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
*First and third Wednesdays: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Established: 1746
- Incorporated: 1746
- Form of government: Mayor and seven-member town council.
- Council meetings: The first and third Wednesday of each month. First Wednesday: board of license commissioners.
- Fiscal year begins: July 1
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
- Cumberland municipal departments and officials
- Find Cumberland's state senator and representative
- Town of Cumberland website
- Industrial sites and space: Highland Corporate Park
- Area points of interest and attractions: please visit the state tourism website
History
The town of Cumberland was one of five towns received from Massachusetts by Royal Decree. The town was known as Attleboro Gore until 1746, when it was incorporated in Rhode Island as the town of Cumberland. Cumberland was named in honor of William, the Duke of Cumberland. Cumberland's early industrial growth centered around the abundant water power of the Blackstone and Abbott Run Rivers. Minerals such as iron and copper were once mined in Cumberland. The town was once known as the mineral deposit of New England because of the extensive mineral deposits within its border. Several shafts — more than 100 years old — are still visible, but mineral deposits are no longer commercially mined. Today, manufacturing and retail trade are the largest sources of income in Cumberland. The continued industrial and commercial growth has contributed greatly to Cumberland's tax base. The town still retains its early rural charm even with the steady growth in industry, commerce and population. Cumberland's country atmosphere, convenient location and continued growth make this town an excellent choice for residence and business interests.
Irena Nedeljkovic-Cunningham