Pettaquamscutt (Washington)

Pettaquamscutt River in Washington County, Rhode Island

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The Pettaquamscutt River, commonly known as Narrow River, is a spectacular six-mile tidal estuary flowing through the Rhode Island towns of North Kingstown, South Kingstown, and Narragansett in Washington County before emptying into Narragansett Bay at Rhode Island Sound. This unique glacially-carved waterway features two remarkably deep kettle ponds, Upper Pond reaching 43 feet deep and Lower Pond plunging to an impressive 65 feet maximum depth, both containing rare naturally anoxic bottom layers that support unique sulfur-based ecosystems studied by scientists from around the world. The shallow sections average just six feet deep and host one of the largest river herring runs in Rhode Island, with thousands of alewives and blueback herring migrating each spring from the ocean through the fish ladder at Carr Pond Dam to spawn. The estuary's 317-acre John H. Chafee National Wildlife Refuge at Pettaquamscutt Cove provides critical habitat for over 200 coastal species including Rhode Island's largest population of black ducks, while the entire watershed supports thriving populations of striped bass, bluefish, ribbed mussels, oysters, eelgrass beds, and extensive salt marshes teeming with snowy egrets, blue herons, ospreys, and bald eagles.

Located in South County Rhode Island along scenic Route 1A, the Narrow River provides access to spectacular ocean beaches including Narragansett Town Beach with its iconic Towers, multiple launch sites for kayaking and canoeing, and the historic Gilbert Stuart Birthplace Museum where the famous portraitist who painted George Washington's image on the dollar bill was born. The surrounding communities offer Theatre by the Sea for live entertainment, the charming downtown Wakefield with its revitalized Saugatucket River walkway and Main Street shops, the University of Rhode Island's Kingston campus with its 7,700-seat Ryan Center, Casey Farm representing rare Colonial-era agriculture, the William C. O'Neill Bike Path extending throughout the region, and the Block Island Ferry departing from nearby Port of Galilee. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of hiking trails maintained by the South Kingstown Land Trust, visit Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge, enjoy spectacular surfing and swimming beaches along the Atlantic coastline, sample local wines and craft beers, dine on fresh seafood including famous Rhode Island clam chowder and stuffies, and experience the vibrant arts community through galleries and festivals celebrating South County's rich maritime heritage.

This stunning laser-cut wooden map of the Pettaquamscutt River would make an extraordinary addition to your coastal home, Rhode Island beach cottage, or office, capturing the remarkable character of this nationally significant estuary with its unique geological features and ecological importance. The intricate design showcases the river's distinctive serpentine course from Carr Pond through the narrow channel past Lacey, Middle, and Sprague Bridges to Pettaquamscutt Cove and the ocean outlet, featuring a natural wood top layer that beautifully highlights the protected refuge areas, historic landmarks, and surrounding watershed. The graduated light blue to dark blue water gradient dramatically illustrates the stunning depth variations from shallow tidal flats and marshes to the extraordinary 65-foot depths of Lower Pond's ancient glacial basin, creating a striking visual representation of this geological wonder. Whether commemorating peaceful kayaking adventures through salt marshes, successful fishing expeditions for stripers and blues, or quiet moments watching ospreys dive and herons wade along the shoreline, this museum-quality piece serves as both sophisticated coastal artwork and a treasured connection to one of Rhode Island's most ecologically significant and scientifically fascinating waterways.

Dimensions:

Small: 8"x12"

Medium: 12"x18"

Large: 16"x24"

Extra Large: 20"x30"

XX Large: 24"x36"

Gigantic 30"x45"