National Register of Historic Places listings in Cranston, Rhode Island facts for kids
Cranston, Rhode Island, is home to many special places that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This list is like a hall of fame for buildings, areas, and objects that are important in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized for its value and efforts are made to protect it for future generations.
Cranston has a rich history, and you can see it in its historic homes, old bridges, and even entire neighborhoods. Let's explore some of these amazing spots!
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Historic Neighborhoods and Districts
Cranston has several historic districts, which are areas with many buildings that share a common history or architectural style. Walking through these districts is like taking a step back in time!
Edgewood Historic Districts
The Edgewood area of Cranston is so full of history that it has several different historic districts. These areas were often planned out a long time ago, like the Anstis Greene Estate Plats, Arnold Farm Plat, Shaw Plat, and Taft Estate Plat. They include many beautiful old homes and streets.
- Edgewood Historic District-Anstis Greene Estate Plats was added to the list on August 3, 2015. It covers streets like Anstis, Broad, and Swift.
- Edgewood Historic District-Arnold Farm Plat joined the list on September 10, 2010. It includes parts of Broad Street and Narragansett Boulevard.
- Edgewood Historic District-Taft Estate Plat became historic on October 24, 2003. It's roughly bordered by Windsor Road and Narragansett Bay. A house here, the William Smith House, is a great example of the area's architecture.
- Edgewood Historic District-Shaw Plat was recognized on March 27, 2013. It includes Shaw and Marion Avenues. The George Babbitt House is one of the notable homes in this plat.
Other Important Districts
Beyond Edgewood, other neighborhoods in Cranston also hold significant historical value.
- Furnace Hill Brook Historic and Archeological District was listed on August 6, 1980. This area, off Furnace Hill Road, is special because it contains old ruins from a foundry built in 1812. It's a peek into Cranston's industrial past.
- Lippitt Hill Historic District joined the list on March 2, 1989. It includes Hope Road and Lippett Avenue.
- Norwood Avenue Historic District was added on April 26, 2002. This district runs along Norwood Avenue and even extends into Providence. The Edgewood Manor Inn is a well-known building here.
- Oak Lawn Village Historic District became historic on November 25, 1977. It covers Wilbur Avenue and nearby streets, showing what a historic village looked like.
- Pawtuxet Village Historic District was listed on April 24, 1973. This charming area is bounded by the Pawtuxet River and Providence River. It's a very old village with a lot of character, including the historic Pawtuxet Baptist Church.
Historic Buildings and Structures
Many individual buildings and structures in Cranston are also recognized for their historical importance.
Bridges and Clubs
Some structures are important for their engineering or their role in community life.
- Arkwright Bridge was listed on December 12, 1978. This bridge crosses the Pawtuxet River at Hill Street and even extends into Kent County. It's a great example of old bridge design.
- Edgewood Yacht Club was added on February 23, 1989. Located at 3 Shaw Avenue, this club has been a gathering place for boaters and community members for many years.
Notable Homes and Mansions
Cranston has many beautiful and historically significant homes, some of which belonged to important people.
- Thomas Fenner House was listed on March 2, 1990. You can find this historic home at 43 Stony Acre Drive.
- Joy Homestead became historic on February 18, 1971. This old homestead at 156 Scituate Avenue gives us a glimpse into early Cranston life.
- Potter-Remington House was added on December 28, 1978, at 571 Natick Road.
- Sheldon House was listed on January 5, 1989, at 458 Scituate Avenue.
- Gov. William Sprague Mansion was recognized on February 18, 1971. Located at 1351 Cranston Street, this grand mansion was once home to Governor William Sprague, an important figure in Rhode Island's history.
- Westcote was added on August 3, 1988, at 101 Mountain Laurel Drive.
- Nathan Westcott House was listed on January 5, 1989, at 150 Scituate Avenue.
- Arad Wood House became historic on August 3, 1988, at 407 Pontiac Avenue.
Other Unique Structures
Beyond homes, other buildings have played important roles in Cranston's community.
- Knightsville Meetinghouse was listed on March 8, 1978. This meetinghouse at 67 Phenix Avenue served as a community gathering place for many years.
- Rhodes-on-the Pawtuxet Ballroom and Gazebo was added on December 12, 1978. This beautiful ballroom and gazebo at Rhodes Place have hosted countless events and dances, making it a beloved spot for celebrations.
- Rosedale Apartments were listed on April 10, 2007. Located at 1180 Narragansett Boulevard, these apartments are recognized for their architectural style and history.
These are just some of the many fascinating historic places in Cranston that help tell the story of this Rhode Island city. Each one has a unique past that contributes to the rich heritage of the area.
Images for kids
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A building in the Edgewood Historic District-Anstis Greene Estate Plats.
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The Charles D. Richmond House in the Edgewood Historic District-Arnold Farm Plat.
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The George Babbitt House in the Edgewood Historic District-Shaw Plat.
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A view of the Lippitt Hill Historic District.
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A scene from the Oak Lawn Village Historic District.
