Rhode Island Tercentenary Issue First Day Cover
300th Anniversary of the Settlement of Rhode Island
Issued on May 4, 1936 in Providence, RI - Scott #777

Unofficial Town Cancel - Hopkinton, RI
John Kilton Cachet - Planty #777-61e

The Hopkinton Post Office, (Hopkinton Township, Washington County) was established in 1811 under Postmaster Jeremiah Thurston. The actual date of opening is unknown, however the Postmaster's first quarterly report was sent in on July 1, 1811. This post office is currently in operation under Postmaster Jennifer A. Ericksen appointed on October 16, 2004.

Jeremiah Thurston was born in Hopkinton on October 17, 1797 to Gardiner and Lydia Taylor Thurston. He married Mary Brown on October 9, 1822. He died in Hartford, Connecticut on March 8, 1852. Jeremiah was a sixth generation descendant of Edward Thurston, (born in England in 1617 and died in Newport, Rhode Island on March 1, 1707).

Hopkinton is a quaint little village in the southwest corner of Rhode Island. The town contains several well preserved homes dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The area contains many ponds and rivers, which are home to some excellent fishing. The area also includes several old fashioned general stores and many antique shops and farm stands.

The General Thurston House, (bed & board) built in 1763 provides excellent accommodations while visiting the area. The house was built by George Thurston (born 1741 died 1827) who served in the Revolution and afterwards rose to the rank of Brigadier General in the State Militia. George Thurston was the grandfather of Jeremiah.

Sources:
Check List of Rhode Island Post Offices 1790-1994 - Del Beaudreau
Rhode Island Postal History: The Post Offices - Merolla, Jackson & Crowther