Cynthia - Click to enlarge Edition #20, 7 July 2008

Hello, my name is Cynthia, a mermaid from the waters of New England. This is a minor milestone, my 20th article. I would like to thank everyone for visiting and supporting my site. Hugs to all!

Look for other articles in this series on the home page.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Watch Hill is a small fire district in southwestern Rhode Island and is part of the town of Westerly. The area was occupied by Niantic Indians in the 1600s. It was an important lookout point for European colonists during the French and Indian War and the Revolutionary War. This gave the fire district its name. Here is a map of Watch Hill.

A major attraction in Watch Hill is The Flying Horse Carousel, the oldest continuously-operated carousel in the United States. Children grab rings as they ride, hoping to be lucky enough to grab the brass ring and win a free ride. The carousel was named a National Historic Landmark in 1987.

Watch Hill offers a wide variety of shopping opportunities. From fine clothing to T-shirts to sunglasses, be sure to take some time to explore. You are not far from the sea, and walking along the seawall offers some exercise for your camera.

Marina, Watch Hill RI (click to enlarge)   Shops, Watch Hill RI (click to enlarge)
Getting hungry? Stop for lunch at St. Claire Annex at 141 Bay Street. Here you will find clam chowder [NE,RI], hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and other casual fare. After lunch, make your way to the ice cream counter and choose your favorite flavor. Ice cream is also available outside at a walk-up window. On the sidewalk, popcorn is sold from a pushcart. Watch the popcorn vendor pour the butter on your popcorn just before handing it to you!

Other dining opportunities in Watch Hill include the Olympia Tea Room at 74 Bay Street, the Bay Street Deli at 112 Bay Street, and the Watch Hill Inn Seaside Cafe at 38 Bay Street.

The Watch Hill Fly Fishing Company offers daily charted fishing trips as well as saltwater fly fishing tackle and sportswear.

Swimming is available at Watch Hill Beach and Napatree Point. You are also not far away from the Misquamicut State Beach.

Another area landmark is Watch Hill Light, located at the Fishers Island Sound east approach. The lighthouse building itself is closed to the public, but the grounds are open during the day. There is no parking at the lighthouse, a 15-minute walk from town is required.

Learn more about Watch Hill at www.visitwatchhill.com, and if you should see me in the water, be sure to wave!

Contact me

You may write to me at to share your comments and questions. Your email may appear in a future article, so please include your first name and last initial. I would also like to know where you are from.

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People see me in the water on occasion, but some people are busy...

Man: Hi.
Cynthia: Hello!
Man: Are you a mermaid?
Cynthia: Yes.
Man: Cool...
Man: Sorry, I must go.
Cynthia: Oh, okay... Take care.

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Photo Credits:
Cynthia at Sunrise: DSI Photo
Watch Hill Marina and Shops: Cynthia

©2008 Gold Mermaid