This southwestern Rhode Island community sits along the Connecticut border and had a bucolic history which is now being challenged by new developments. Hopkinton is a community of forests, state parks and management areas. Hopkinton's growth should continue as the town is bisected by I-95 giving it easy access to the growing southeastern Connecticut market as well as an easy 40-minute drive into Providence.
Westerly, Rhode Island Watch Hill, Rhode Island Misquamicut, Rhode Island Hopkinton, Rhode Island Richmond, Rhode Island Pawcatuck, Connecticut Hopkinton was established in 1669 as a part of the Town of Westerly, as were Richmond and Charlestown. However, after the people petitioned the General Assembly to divide it, the Town of Hopkinton was incorporated on March 14, 1757. Hopkinton was named in honor of Stephen Hopkins, who was then Governor of Rhode Island, and also a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Similar to other Rhode Island cities and town, the early settlements in Hopkinton were centered around its rivers. For example, one of the early trades in Ashaway was blacksmithing. This village is also known throughout the world because here is located the Ashaway Line & Twine Mfg. Co., a manufacturer of top quality sport fishing lines and products.
Today, Hopkinton is still a rural town. Recreation is highlighted in Hopkinton with fresh water fishing facilities, parks, and numerous campgrounds. Hopkinton is one of the popular vacation areas of southern Rhode Island and convenient to miles of ocean front beaches.
The center of Hopkinton is the little hamlet of Hopkinton City, designed as a state and federal historic district. Antiquities in the center of town include the 1861 town hall, the 1790 meeting house and the 1836 First Baptist Church.
Antiques enthusiasts will relish discovering the many antique shops in town, and the Colonial Crafts Fair each September.
Fenner Hill Golf Course is a picturesque course that compliments the lovely Lindhbrook, par 3 course. These modern facilities are two of the finest courses in the region.
Hope Valley, a village in the Town of Hopkinton, has a small quantity of shops, all of excellent quality. Bakeries, clothing and outdoor sports retailers, quaint restaurants and a handful of other businesses are nestled along Routes 3 & 138 in this historic village.
