Cumberland #26: RI's Best Communities 2013

Cumberland #26: RI's Best Communities 2013

Formerly known as Attleboro Gore, Cumberland was one of 5 towns to be received from Massachusetts by Royal Decree. Located near the Blackstone and Abbott Run Rivers, industrial advancement and mining contributed greatly to the town’s development during its fledgling years. Based on the motto of “Great History, Bright Future,” this Blackstone Valley town has a vibrant Portuguese community and continues to grow from manufacturing and retail trade.

Cumberland by the numbers

Established: 1746
Population: 33,506
Median household income: $72,689
Median housing price: $233,250

2013 Best Communities rankings

Overall ranking: 26
Affordability ranking: 12
Education ranking: 25
Economic condition: 12
Safety ranking: 27
Arts & Culture ranking: 37 (T)

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

Famous residents:

William Blaxton, Cumberland's first European settler
Jemima Wilkinson, 18th century evangelist, was born and raised in Cumberland
Tim White, former WWE referee
The Farrelly Brothers, filmmakers
David Macaulay, author and illustrator
Aaron Fricke, gay rights activist
Brad Adamonis, current PGA tour golfer
Richard Jenkins, Academy Award Nominated actor
Rocco Baldelli, MLB Free Agent outfielder
Brian Lawton, the first American ice hockey player selected #1 overall in the NHL entry draft
Cory Pesaturo, world champion accordionist
John Capron, Sr, textile pioneer