Providence is the capital and most populous city in the U.S. state of Rhode Island. With an estimated population of 179,335 as of 2019, Providence is the third largest city in New England after Boston and Worcester. Located at the mouth of the Providence River at the head of Narragansett Bay, Providence was founded in 1636 by Roger Williams and became one of the original Thirteen Colonies. The city played an important role in the American Revolution as host to the Rhode Island General Assembly during the war.
Population
The population of Providence peaked in the 1940s with around 253,000 residents. Like many northeastern industrial cities, Providence underwent a decline in population from the 1950s to 1980s. However, the population has stabilized and slightly increased again in recent years. As of the 2019 Census estimate, Providence has 179,335 residents.
Providence has a racially and ethnically diverse population. The largest ethnic groups are Italian American, Irish American, French American, African American, Puerto Rican, and Dominican. Providence has vibrant communities of immigrants from Portugal, Cape Verde, Guatemala, Colombia, Ethiopia, India, Liberia, and other countries.
Economy
Historically an industrial hub, Providence still has a diversified economy based on manufacturing, financial services, education, technology, and healthcare. Major employers in Providence include Brown University,Rhode Island Hospital, the Rhode Island School of Design, Citizens Bank, Bank of America, Fidelity Investments, Textron, and General Dynamics Electric Boat.
The largest industries in Providence are education, healthcare, financial services, technology, and manufacturing. As the state capital and home to several universities, government and education make up a large part of the economy. Providence is also becoming a growing center for technology companies focused on biotech, cybersecurity, and digital health.
Some of the major companies headquartered in Providence include CVS Health, Citizens Financial Group, Textron, Greece Systems, United Natural Foods, and Gilbane Construction Company. Providence is home to the second largest nursing school in the U.S. and is a leader in medical research and biotechnology.
Landmarks
Providence has many historical and cultural landmarks. Some of the most notable include:
- Roger Williams National Memorial – Honors the founder of Rhode Island.
- Rhode Island Historical Society Museum – History museum focused on Rhode Island’s past.
- Rhode Island School of Design Museum – Art museum with over 100,000 works.
- WaterFire – Art installation with bonfires on the river.
- East Side Park – A scenic urban park established 1879.
The city’s historic architecture, cultural scene, universities, and urban parks all contribute to Providence’s vibrant atmosphere. As the “Creative Capital”, Providence has a thriving arts community.
Sports
Despite its small size, Providence has major league sports teams. The NBA’s Boston Celtics play at the TD Garden, while the NHL’s Boston Bruins play at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in downtown Providence. The minor league Providence Bruins hockey team and Providence Steamrollers basketball team also play in the city.
Providence is home to the headquarters of the Eastern League’s minor league Pawtucket Red Sox, affiliated with the Boston Red Sox. College sports are very popular, with teams like the Providence College Friars, Brown Bears, and Bryant Bulldogs competing in NCAA Division 1.
Government
Providence uses a mayor-council form of government. Jorge Elorza has served as the mayor of Providence since 2015. The Providence City Council consists of fifteen members, known as councilpersons, elected from each of the city’s wards. For more information on city government, visit the Providence city website.
Culture and Tourism
Providence offers many cultural attractions and events. The city has a renowned theater scene, with the Providence Performing Arts Center, Trinity Repertory Company, and Festival Ballet Providence. Providence is also home to culinary delights, independent shops, art galleries, and historic architecture.
Popular destinations include the RISD Museum, Rhode Island State House, Benefit Street’s historic homes, WaterFire art installations, and Federal Hill’s Italian restaurants. Providence also hosts major events like the PVDFest art festival, the Rhode Island Comic Con, and WaterFire festivals.
To learn more about experiencing Providence’s arts, culture, dining, and nightlife, visit the GoProvidence tourism website. You can also follow Providence on Facebook.