7 Fun Facts About Rhode Island, the Smallest State in the US 

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Did you know that Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US, but has the longest official name? Here are 7 fun facts about this fascinating state. 

The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations”. It was named after the island of Rhodes in Greece and the settlements founded by Roger Williams.

Longest Name 

#1

Rhode Island hosted the first circus performance in the US in 1774 in Newport. It featured acrobats, clowns, and animals.

First Circus

#2

Rhode Island’s official state drink is coffee milk, which is made with milk and coffee syrup. It was invented by Italian immigrants in the 19th century 

Coffee Milk

#3

Rhode Island was the site of the first open golf tournament in the US in 1895. It was held at the Newport Country Club and won by Horace Rawlins 

First Golf Tournament 

#4

Rhode Island was one of the few states that never ratified the 18th Amendment, which banned the sale of alcohol in the US.

No Prohibition 

#5

Rhode Island is home to the oldest operating carousel in the US, the Flying Horse Carousel in Watch Hill. 

Oldest Carousel  

#6

It featured legendary musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Duke Ellington.

First Jazz 

#7

Next: 9 Things to Do in Rhode Island This Fall

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