Bristol, located along Narragansett Bay, was the site of the first battle of King Philip's War in 1675. This was a rebellion by Wampanoag Indians against settlers who bought land from King Philip's late father, Sachem Massasoit. Philip was defeated, his Indian name, Metacom, was given to one of East Bay's main roads. As a result of the war, Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts retained Bristol lands, finally releasing them, together with the towns of Barrington, Tiverton, Little Compton and Cumberland in 1747. Sailing and ship building have played an important role in the life of Bristol since the 17th century. In the 1700s Bristol was a major port for the slave trade and later privateering flourished. During the American Revolution, Bristol suffered several attacks by British troops. The Joseph Reynolds House on Hope Street served as headquarters for the Marquis de Lafayette and his staff in 1778.
Today, Bristol retains an historic character with many handsome homes built in the 1800s, some designed by noted architect Russell Warren, gracing the tree-lined streets. Visitors come from far away places to enjoy Bristol's scenic beauty and the oldest celebration of the Fourth of July in America, stroll along its waterfront, shop in its many stores and dine in its fine restaurants. |
Bristol At A GlancePopulation: 22,954
No. Households: 9,315 Median Age: 38.2 Median Household Income: $43,689 Average House Price: $265,000 Tax Rate Per Thousand: $14.92 Water Area: 10.5 sq. miles Land Area: 10.1 sq. miles Bristol Quick ContactsPolice: 253-6900 (business line)
Fire: 253-5353 (non-emergency) Animal Control: 253-4834 Town Hall: 253-7000 Public Works: 253-4100 Planning/Zoning: 253-7000 x153 Library: 253-6984 BCWA: 254-2022 Post Office: 253-5821 BWRSD: 253-4000 |