Fort Wetherill State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort Wetherill State Park |
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 Fort Wetherill State Park
Location in Rhode Island
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| Location | Jamestown, Newport, Rhode Island, United States |
| Area | 61.5 acres (24.9 ha) |
| Elevation | 66 ft (20 m) |
| Established | 1972 |
| Governing body | Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Parks & Recreation |
| Website | Fort Wetherill State Park |
Fort Wetherill State Park is a cool place to visit in Jamestown, Rhode Island. It's a public park that covers about 61.5 acres. You can find it at the very end of Conanicut Island.
This park sits right on the East Passage of Narragansett Bay. It's directly across the water from Fort Adams State Park. Fort Wetherill is a great spot for outdoor fun and learning about history.
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A Look Back: Fort Wetherill's History
Fort Wetherill has an interesting past as a military fort. From 1901 all the way through World War II, it was part of a group of forts. These forts were built to protect the entrance to Narragansett Bay.
Protecting the Bay
Fort Wetherill and Fort Adams worked together. They formed a strong line of defense. Their job was to keep the bay safe from enemy ships. Soldiers trained here and cannons were ready for action.
Becoming a State Park
The land where Fort Wetherill sits was once owned by the United States government. In 1972, the State of Rhode Island bought the fort's battery and training camp. That's when it officially became a state park for everyone to enjoy.
Fun Things to Do at Fort Wetherill
Fort Wetherill State Park is a popular spot for many activities. There's something for almost everyone to enjoy here.
- Sightseeing: You can take amazing photos of the bay and the old fort.
- Scuba Diving: The clear waters make it a favorite place for divers. They explore underwater.
- Picnicking: Bring your lunch and enjoy a meal with a view.
- Boating: Many people launch their boats from here.
- Fishing: Cast a line and try to catch some fish.
- Hiking: Explore the trails and enjoy the natural beauty.
The Fort Today
The old fort buildings are still there. They show their age and have a lot of graffiti on them. Even with the graffiti, the fort is a cool place to explore and imagine its past. It's a reminder of history right by the water.
