Belknap, Rhode Island facts for kids
Belknap is a small, historic village located inside the city of Johnston, in the state of Rhode Island. It might be small, but Belknap has played a big part in Johnston's history!
Belknap: A Historic Village
Belknap is known for being the location of many "firsts" for the town of Johnston. These important events helped shape the community we see today.
Early Days in Belknap
Belknap was a very important place when Johnston was first getting started. Many key events happened here that helped the town grow.
First Town Meeting
On April 18, 1759, something very important happened in Belknap. The people of Johnston held their very first Town Meeting. This meeting took place at Benjamin Belknap's house on Greenville Avenue. At this meeting, citizens made decisions about their town.
During this first meeting, Abraham Belknap was chosen for a special job. He became the town's first Town Sergeant. A Town Sergeant was like an important officer who helped keep order and carry out town decisions.
Important Buildings
Belknap was also home to some of Johnston's earliest important buildings. These places helped the community come together.
- In 1771, the Baptist Meeting House in Belknap opened its doors. This building is thought to be the very first place of worship in all of Johnston.
- Later, in 1790, the Belknap School was founded. This was the first school in Johnston, showing how important education was to the early settlers.
