John H. Chafee Nature Preserve

                

        On April 2, 2001- the Narragansett Electric Company, a National Grid Company donated over 200 acres of pristine water front property in North Kingston to the state of Rhode Island in honor of our beloved late U.S. senator John H. Chafee. Rome Point as the property is known, had been under the stewardship of Narragansett Electric since 1953. Great care has been taken not to disturb the natural habitat of this beautiful shore line property. Through this gift, Narragansett Electric has ensured that Rome Point will remain forever untouched in its natural beauty for the enjoyment of everyone in Rhode Island. 

 

Location: Boston Neck rd, North Kingston, RI

 

TOTAL ACREAGE:  230 acres

 

PREVIOUS  OWNERS:  Narragansett Electric Company, a National Grid Company

 

ORIGIN OF NAME:  It was named after the late Senator John H. Chafee .

 

ACQUISITION: Donated by Narragansett Electric Company

 

DATE STATE ACQUIRED:   April 2, 2001

 

LIST OF PREVIOUS OWNERS:  

 

Before 1659 owned by Narragansett Indians

1659 purchased by Atherton & Co.

1671 purchased by Captain Edward Hutchinson & Elisha Hutchinson

1702 purchased by Elisha Cole

purchased by Henry Collins

1766 purchased by George Rome

1774 purchased by confiscated by the state and sold

1776 purchased by Judge Ezekiel Gardner

1920 purchased by John Menzies

1953  purchased by Narragansett Electric Company

2001 Donated to the State of Rhode Island