Portsmouth, Rhode Island

Portsmouth is a town located in Newport County, Rhode Island. As of the 2000 census, the town had a total population of 17,149.

History

Portsmouth was settled in 1638 by Anne Hutchinson and her followers. It was founded by the signers of the Portsmouth Compact, including Anne Hutchinson's husband William Hutchinson. Its original Indian name was Pocasset. It was officially named Portsmouth on May 12, 1639.

Related Topics:
Anne Hutchinson - Portsmouth Compact - William Hutchinson - May 12 - 1639

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It became part of the colony of Rhode Island (see Aquidneck Island) and eventually of the colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations and the state that bears that name.

Related Topics:
Aquidneck Island - State

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Portsmouth is the site of an important capture during the American War for Independence. Colonel Wiliam Barton of Rhode island captured the British Commander-in-Chief, General Richard Prescott there. It is also the site of Rhode Island's only major battle in that war on August 29, 1778. During this battle the British were defeated by the First Rhode Island Regiment, which was comprised mostly of African-American soldiers.

Related Topics:
American War for Independence - Richard Prescott - August 29 - 1778

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