A South County State of Mind

A funny thing happens to you when you move to South County, Rhode Island. It doesn't happen overnight. You can't see it coming, but it invariably strikes almost all residents of this idyllic portion of our state. Once we get here we have a hard time leaving. When I say leave I don't refer to moving away, this is purely about leaving South County for any reason at any time. I grew up in Providence and hear about all the great things that have been happening there with the renaissance of the City, etc. However, when push comes to shove, I am not interested in getting in my car and driving past the "Hannah Robinson Tower". The "Tower", which is located at the intersection of Route 138 and Route 1 has always served as the unofficial line which separates South County from the rest of the world. Everyone says that once they pass the "Tower" they can feel the cool ocean breezes. The "Tower" was originally constructed in 1938 and has glorious views from the top of Old Tower Hill but has always been tied to the sad story of Hannah Robinson due to its proximity to the old Robinson Farm.

We in South County find it hard to pass that "Tower" at any time. I find myself making a list of items to buy at the larger big box stores of Warwick and other places and making the 20 to 25 minute trip about 3 times per year and hating it every time I do it. Although there is great dining North of the "Tower" I am still very happy enjoying the great dining here in South County and when I feel I need something different I will go East to Newport as to avoid going North of the "Tower". For those of you who live elsewhere this all sounds crazy but my fellow Quahogs out there know what I am talking about. Come and spend some time, you will see what I mean!