Westerly

Westerly, town (1990 pop. 21,605), Washington co., extreme SW R.I., between the Pawcatuck River and Block Island Sound; inc. 1669. Formerly important industries include textile manufacturing (dating from 1814), and granite quarrying (since c.1850). Westerly's current manufactures include musical instruments, and there is a substantial trade market. The town, which serves as a bedroom community and a popular resort, actually embraces 11 different villages. A bridge (1932) connects the village of Westerly with Connecticut.