Summit, Rhode Island facts for kids
Summit is a small village located inside the larger town of Coventry, Rhode Island. It's a quiet place with a history tied to railroads and farming.
Contents
Discovering Summit's Past
Summit grew up as a special kind of village, often called a "railroad village." It was built close to the town of Greene, Rhode Island. In the early days, it had just a few white houses, a church, a library, and a general store.
How Summit Got Its Name
Long ago, Summit was known by a different name: Perry's Hollow. But the name changed to Summit because the village is located at a high point in the area. Think of it like being at the "summit" or top of a hill!
The Railroad's Role
During the 1800s, the New York and New England Railroad had a train station right in Summit. This station was very important. It provided wood and water for the steam trains as they traveled through. Trains were a big part of life, helping people and goods move around.
Farming and Trade
Most of the land around Summit was used for farming. Farmers grew many different crops. Before trains became less common, these farm goods were sent by train all the way to Providence, Rhode Island. This helped the local economy and connected Summit to bigger cities.
Important Buildings in Summit
Summit has some interesting old buildings that tell us about its past.
Summit Baptist Church
The first Summit Baptist Church building was built in 1862. It was a place for the community to gather for many years. In 2001, a new church building was constructed nearby. The original old church is now owned by the Coventry Historical Society. They help take care of it and share its history.
Summit Library and Historical Exhibits
The Coventry Historical Society also works with the Summit library. They have special exhibits there. These exhibits help people learn about the history of Summit and the surrounding area. It's a great way to see how life used to be!
The Old General Store
The Summit General Store opened its doors in 1888. General stores were once very important places. They sold everything from food to tools and were often a meeting spot for people. However, the Summit General Store closed in 2022. Even though it's closed, it remains a part of the village's history.
Exploring Summit Today
Today, Summit is a peaceful village. You can still see some of the historic buildings. The area is also known for the Trestle Trail. This trail follows the path where the old railroad tracks used to be. It's a popular spot for walking, biking, and enjoying nature.
