National Register of Historic Places listings in Smithfield, Rhode Island facts for kids
This is a list of Registered Historic Places in Smithfield, Rhode Island. These are special places that the United States government has recognized as important to history. They could be old buildings, interesting areas, or even places where important events happened. Protecting these sites helps us learn about the past and understand how our communities grew.
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Exploring Smithfield's Historic Gems
Smithfield, Rhode Island, is home to several amazing places that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These sites tell us stories about the people, industries, and daily life from long ago. Let's take a look at some of them!
Allenville Mill Storehouse
The Allenville Mill Storehouse is an old building located at 5 Esmond Street. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on January 20, 1972. This storehouse was likely part of a larger mill complex. Mills were very important in Rhode Island's history, as they helped the state become a leader in textile manufacturing. Buildings like this storehouse played a key role in storing materials or finished goods for the mill.
Angell–Ballou House
You can find the Angell–Ballou House at 49 Ridge Road. This historic home was recognized on March 18, 2004. Many old houses are listed because they show us how people lived in the past or because they have special architectural styles. The Angell–Ballou House helps us understand the history of homes and families in Smithfield.
Georgiaville Historic District
The Georgiaville Historic District is not just one building, but a whole area that is historically important! It's roughly bounded by Stillwater Road, Cross Street, Whipple Avenue, and Farnum Pike. This district was added to the Register on October 3, 1985. Historic districts often include many buildings that tell a story about a community's development, especially around an old mill or town center. The Georgiaville Mill is a central part of this district.
Saint Thomas Episcopal Church and Rectory
Located on Putnam Pike, the Saint Thomas Episcopal Church and its Rectory (the minister's house) are important landmarks. They were listed on July 2, 1987. Churches often serve as community centers and their architecture can tell us a lot about the time they were built. This church and rectory show the history of faith and community life in Smithfield.
Smith–Appleby House
The Smith–Appleby House is a very old and significant home, found on Stillwater Road. It was added to the National Register on May 1, 1974. This house is a great example of early American architecture and often serves as a museum, letting visitors step back in time to see how people lived centuries ago.
Smithfield Exchange Bank
The Smithfield Exchange Bank, located at 599 Putnam Pike, became a Registered Historic Place on April 19, 2006. Banks played a huge role in the growth of towns and cities by helping businesses and people manage their money. This building shows us what financial institutions looked like in the past and how they supported the local economy.
Ira B. Sweet House
Another historic home in Smithfield is the Ira B. Sweet House, found at 38 Esmond Street. It was listed on January 15, 2010. Like other historic houses, it gives us a glimpse into the lives of past residents and the architectural styles popular during its time.
Waterman–Winsor Farm
The Waterman–Winsor Farm, located at 79 Austin Avenue, was added to the Register on June 27, 1980. Farms like this one are important because they show us the agricultural history of an area. They remind us of a time when most people lived off the land and how food was produced.
Stephen Winsor House
The Stephen Winsor House, at 113 Austin Avenue, was listed on October 6, 1975. It's another example of a historic home that contributes to the rich history of Smithfield. Its listing helps preserve its unique story and architecture for future generations.
Woonasquatucket River Site (RI-163)
The Woonasquatucket River Site (RI-163), located near Farnum Pike, was listed on November 1, 1984. This site is different from the others because it's not a building, but an archaeological site. This means it's a place where scientists can find artifacts and clues about how people lived thousands of years ago, often near important natural features like rivers.
