Great Road Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Great Roadians and Great Road Historic District
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Arnold House, 1687, on Great Road in Lincoln, Rhode Island
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 Location in Rhode Island
Location in the United States
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| Location | Lincoln, Rhode Island |
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| Built | 1683 |
| Architect | numerous |
| Architectural style | Colonial, Federal, Victorian |
| NRHP reference No. | 74000051 |
| Added to NRHP | July 22, 1974 |
The Great Road Historic District is a special area in Lincoln, Rhode Island. It protects a very old part of Rhode Island's first main highway. This road dates all the way back to 1683.
During America's colonial times, Great Road was super important. It connected major towns like Providence, Hartford, and Worcester. Imagine it as a busy interstate highway from long ago!
Contents
What is the Great Road Historic District?
The Great Road Historic District covers about 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) of this historic road. This section winds along the Moshassuck River. It stretches between Breakneck Hill Road and Front Street. This area was chosen because it has many old buildings. These buildings show what life was like hundreds of years ago.
A Road Through History
The Great Road was one of the first major roads in Rhode Island. It was built in 1683. This road helped people travel and trade goods. It was vital for connecting different settlements. The road played a big part in the early growth of the region.
Famous Old Buildings Along the Road
Many important old buildings are found along this historic stretch. These buildings tell stories of the past. They include homes, mills, and other structures. Each one helps us understand colonial life.
The Eleazer Arnold House
One very famous building is the Eleazer Arnold House. It was built in 1687. This house is a special type called a "stone-ender." This means one end of the house is made entirely of stone. It has a huge fireplace built into that stone wall. The Eleazer Arnold House is so important that it is a National Historic Landmark. Today, you can visit it as a museum. Historic New England takes care of it.
Moffett Mill and Other Homes
Another cool building is the Moffett Mill, built in 1812. Mills like this used water power to grind grain or saw wood. You can also find the Israel Arnold House here. And there's Hearthside, a beautiful home from 1810. Hearthside belonged to Stephen Smith. He started the nearby Butteryfly Mill in 1811. These buildings show different styles of architecture. They range from colonial to Victorian times.
The Great Road Historic District was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. This listing helps protect these important historical sites. It makes sure they can be enjoyed for many years to come.
