Chesler Park Trail | Monticello

Information

Landmark: Chesler Park Trail
City: Monticello
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America

Chesler Park Trail, Monticello, USA Utah, North America

The Downtown Westerly Historic District is a designated area in Westerly, Rhode Island, preserving a collection of historically significant buildings and streetscapes.

Visual Characteristics

The district features a concentration of late 19th and early 20th-century commercial architecture. Buildings are primarily constructed of brick and stone, with varying facade treatments including granite, sandstone, and pressed metal. Architectural styles represented include Italianate, Queen Anne, and Beaux-Arts. Streetlights and sidewalks maintain a consistent, period-appropriate aesthetic.

Location & Access Logistics

The district is situated in the central business area of Westerly, Rhode Island. It is accessible via Route 1 (Post Road) and Route 78. The Westerly train station, served by Amtrak and the MBTA Commuter Rail, is located approximately 0.8km South of the district's core. Limited on-street parking is available, with several municipal parking lots located within a 0.5km radius. Bus routes operated by the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) serve the downtown area.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The district developed as Westerly's primary commercial and civic center from the mid-19th century through the early 20th century. Its growth was fueled by the town's granite quarrying industry and its position as a transportation hub. The area's original purpose was to house businesses, banks, government offices, and public gathering spaces.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploration of the district involves walking tours to observe architectural details. Several independent retail shops and restaurants operate within the historic buildings. The Westerly Public Library, a notable Beaux-Arts structure, is located within the district. The Chorus of Westerly performs at the historic George Kent Performance Hall.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Public restrooms are available at the Westerly Public Library and select municipal parking areas. Shade is provided by mature trees along some streets and awnings of commercial establishments. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the district. Food vendors and restaurants are present within the district.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting on building facades, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. Weather is generally most favorable for walking tours between May and October. No specific tide requirements apply to this inland historic district.

Facts & Legends

The Westerly granite quarried in the surrounding area was used in the construction of numerous prominent buildings across the United States, including the base of the Statue of Liberty and the foundations of the Brooklyn Bridge. A local anecdote suggests that the distinctive pink hue of some Westerly granite is due to trace amounts of manganese.