The smallest state in the country,
Rhode Island covers an area of approximately 1,545-square-miles. It is bounded north and east by the state of
Massachusetts, south by the Atlantic Ocean, and west by the state of Connecticut. A state born out of the yearning for religious freedom and tolerance, Rhode Island has grown through a heritage of common goals. In a land that is as diverse and wonderful as its people, Rhode Island's fierce pride in its strong, steadfast history of independence shines throughout the city.
Origin of State's Name: The first mention of Rhode Island in writing ("isola di Rhode") was made by explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano in 1524. Some attribute the name to Dutch explorer Adriaen Block ("Roode Eylandt"), again because its red clay is similar to the Greek island of Rhodes.
Capital City: With population of around 170,000, the state's capital city,
Providence, combines the accessibility and friendliness of a small town with the culture and sophistication of a big city. With its booming economy, thriving arts community, vibrant and diverse neighborhoods and renowned restaurant scene, Providence is a premier place to call home.
Population: Rhode Island has a population of approximately 1.2 million.
Driving: Driver's license information, applications, testing requirements, driver's manuals and testing locations can be found on the
Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.
Agriculture and Industry: Major agriculture includes nursery stock, vegetables, dairy products and eggs. Fashion jewelry, fabricated metal products, electric equipment, machinery, shipbuilding and boatbuilding and tourism are the state's leading industries.
State Bird: The Rhode Island red chicken was designated the official state bird of Rhode Island in 1954.
State Tree: Although the red maple was voted as the state tree by Rhode Island's schoolchildren in the 1890's, it was not officially recognized as the state tree until 1964.
State Flower: Rhode Island was the last state to adopt an official state flower. The Viola sororia was not officially adopted as the state flower until 1968.
State Song: Written by Charlie Hall, "Rhode Island's It for Me" is the official state song.