Block Island

Block Island is one of the smallest and least populated islands in Rhode Island. It has a population of about 1,700 people and is about two hours by boat from Providence. The island is known for its natural beauty and its vibrant arts community. It is also known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly people.

History

Block Island is one of the Narragansett Bay islands, and was first settled by Europeans in 1636. The island was subsequently part of a series of land grants made to various religious groups. It became an insular community known as Block Island Plantation, and its residents were self-sufficient agriculturists who raised poultry, pigs, goats and cows.

The arrival of the railroad in 1875 led to increased industrialization on Block Island, which resulted in a decline in agricultural production. In recent decades however, the island has reestablished itself as a leading arts destination due to its close proximity to New York City, attracting artists and artisans looking for a quiet place in which to create their work.

The island was home of the artist Winfield Christian Brown from 1885 until his death in 1945. The old three-sided church, blockhouse (1651), burial mounds (block’s earliest historic marker is dated 1669) were surveyed by Henry Gannett Elliot on October 9–17, 1898 as part of an archaeological survey sponsored by multiple institutions. The Block Island Historical Society notes that “Hence sprang the first organized study effort at Block Island.”

Climate

The island has a mild ocean climate, with moderating effects from the Gulf Stream. The average annual temperature is about 23 °C (73 °F). There is only 1 year where the temperature exceeds 30°C (86°F), and it averages 27.5 degrees Celsius or 81 degrees Fahrenheit all other years. The coolest month on record was January 1985 when temperatures averaged 18.7 degrees Celsius while the warmest month on record was July 1936 when temperatures averaged 26.1 degrees Celsius.

Culture

The culture on Block Island is typically very relaxed, with a strong focus on enjoying the simple things in life. Residents enjoy spending time outdoors, fishing, bird-watching, and hiking. They are also well known for their handmade crafts and arts.

Attractions

There are a number of attractions located on Block Island including:

The Block Island Wind Farm is an offshore wind farm that comprises six turbines off the coast of North Kingstown in Rhode Island and one turbine off the coast of South Kingstown in Narragansett Bay. It began operations at full capacity in December 2016 with the support of Westinghouse.

The consortium, led by Deepwater Wind LLC was awarded a 25-year contract to sell power from the Block Island wind farm for 11 cents per kilowatt hour under RGS&M’s rate plan and open access program. The sale price will be adjusted annually based on generators performance in delivering actual energy output versus what has been contracted; however as at December 2015 an estimated annual payment of all revenue above that amount is expected to total $65 million over the decade.

Politics

The politics of Block Island are typically moderate, with a focus on issues such as healthcare and education. The island has not voted for the Republican or Democratic presidential nominee in the past five elections. The largest party on the island is typically either Democratic or Republican. In 2008 Democrat Barack Obama received 63% of the popular vote, and in 2012 Republican Mitt Romney received 61% of the votes cast.

Government services

The government services on Block Island are typically provided by the Town of North Kingstown or the City of South Kingstown. Schools on the island are typically run by the towns in which they reside, though a small number of charter school students live there.

Tourism

Block Island is known for its picturesque oceanfront views and casual beach lifestyle, which has drawn visitors to the island for centuries. Modern tourism on Block Island generally focuses on activities such as windsurfing, fishing, walking and biking.

Conclusion

Block Island is an unincorporated territory of the US state of Rhode Island. It’s a small island, just over 1 square mile, located about 3 miles off the coast of Newport. It’s easily accessible by ferry and boasts a picturesque landscape, complete with narrow winding roads and stunning sea views. With its long history and fascinating stories, Block Island is a great place to spend a weekend or explore on your own. If you’re looking to learn more about this less-known destination, read on for our top tips on what to do and see when visiting Block Island!

FAQs

What Are The Top Tips For Visiting Block Island?

Visiting Block Island is all about experiencing the island on your own terms, but if you do want some ideas of things to see and do while you’re here then we’ve put together a little guide!

How Much Does It Cost For Flights?

Depending on where you fly from and when, short-hop domestic flights can be as cheap as $35 dollars one way (though only November – December); long-haul most airlines have fares from around $100/£80 return. Even closer options include JetBlue, which has two daily routes that start in both New York City and Boston, AKF , with a daily flight to Block Island from both Providence and Newport.

What Currency Is Used On Block Island?

Throughout the island you’ll see green $20 bills, even though it legally belong to Rhode Island! They come in denominations of 50 cents up to $100; for larger transactions make sure you change before making your way off after paying… It does seem odd (and perhaps irritating) that no matter how many times/wherever you visit cities within the US often still use dollars as their preferred form of payment but thanks to this money note factor I ‘m sure everyone will agree it’s an ironed-out system that has served us well for centuries.

How Do I Buy A Tourist Card?

Unfortunately, all Block Island visitors must purchase a non-refundable $20 visitor’s card from the Newport tax office on your first day using any of our sponsors, otherwise you won’t be allowed onto the island (everyone is required to have one). The money goes into keeping the town looking wonderful too! A passport or driver’s license photograph and details are taken at this time in order to verify identity & age etc.

What Are The Public Transportation Options On Block Island?

There is limited bus service throughout the island, with a few stops in Newport and one stop at Heritage Farm located just south of Middletown. If you’re looking for something a bit more convenient, taxis can be found almost everywhere on the island and run around $25 to Snug Harbor or Willard Beach during high season; rates are usually significantly lower off-season.