Providence in Providence County, Rhode Island — The American Northeast (New England)
A Thoroughfare Town
Photographed By Bryan Simmons, June 8, 2012
1. A Thoroughfare Town Marker
This intersection was the earliest center of colonial Providence. A grist mill stood just north, at the falls of Moshassuck River, and a tannery and taverns were nearby across the street. In 1676 the natives of many tribes united against the New England colonies in King Philip's War. Alone, unarmed, and over 70 years old, Roger Williams walked out on a point of land in the river here, and pleaded unsuccessfully with the warriors to spare his town from burning.
Williams was fluent in the Narragansett language and often acted as mediator between colonists and natives. His Key Into the Language of America was a collection of phrases, poems and cultural observations on native life.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Native Americans • Settlements & Settlers • Wars, US Indian. A significant historical year for this entry is 1676.
Location. This marker has been replaced by another marker nearby. It was located near 41° 49.885′ N, 71° 24.643′ W. Marker was in Providence, Rhode Island, in
Photographed By Bryan Simmons, June 8, 2012
2. A Thoroughfare Town Marker
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location. Witness to History (here, next to this marker); A Place for Your Ideas (a few steps from this marker); Snowtown Riot 1831 (within shouting distance of this marker); Gabriel Bernon (within shouting distance of this marker); Seasonal Gathering (within shouting distance of this marker); The Wellspring of Providence (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Original Water Supply (about 300 feet away); A Shelter for Persons Distressed (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Providence.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 23, 2020. It was originally submitted on June 8, 2012, by Bryan Simmons of Attleboro, Massachusetts. This page has been viewed 520 times since then and 8 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 8, 2012, by Bryan Simmons of Attleboro, Massachusetts. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
