place II

I grew up in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US and is frequently confused with Long Island, New York. I live 5 minutes from the beach so have always loved the ocean, which I took for granted while I was there. It only takes 45 minutes to drive the entire state thus any trip that takes longer than 15 minutes to drive is considered a road trip. There is a big tower that separates the North and South part of the state. If you live in the south part like I do you rarely go north of the tower or vice versa. I live in the nuclear neighborhood where kids ride there bikes and play outside till the street lights go on and you actually go over and have coffee with your neighbors. The atmosphere is very laid back in the summers because of all the beaches. And the size allows you to know almost everyone.
Rhode Island was founded by Roger Williams and was one of the original 13 colonies. Rhode Island actually has the longest name of all states; The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. South County is made up of all the towns at the southern tip of the state. There had been Native Americans inhabiting this land well before the colony and state. And ever since there have been territory disputes as well as issues with politics.
I have lived in South County my entire life and until my sophomore year in high school never knew any of the history besides the basics. I gave a quick overview above but I did do an entire history project on the history of the development of South County, South Kingstown in particular. It was very interesting to discover. The town has converted the old homes of the prestigious families into buildings such as the homeless center or the public library and the parks and recreation building. There are many houses that my friends live in also that date back hundreds of years ago as well. Also the prominent families who were vital in the development are still families in town today. It is sometimes hard to remember just how old Rhode Island is since it does have all the modern conveniences but reminders are evident every day. I enjoy the geographical features and the history of the state just as the founders did.
Over the past couple of months my view on what was considered my home was altered. I guess I had always taken my physical hometown and house for granted until my parents told me they might move. I always felt South Kingstown would always be there. But when I realized I might not get to come back for awhile I realized how important this place was in making who I was today. I don’t know what I would do without the beach. Nothing can make a bad day go away as well as crashing waves can. It still shocks me when people say they live like 5 or 0 hours from an ocean. Also all the little things that nobody but a Rhode Islander would understand. Also my physical house, where I grew up; where I laid on the catch when I was sick or hung out with my friends. And my bedroom-my favorite place in the whole world where I went to relax when stressed or just to read. Nothing will ever be able to replace my home.