Hidden History of South County

The rolling farmlands and gentle sea of Washington County–or South County, as it’s locally known–disguise its spirited history. Famous sword swallower Marie Devere, the birdman of Canonchet and even gifted medicine-makers all called the region home. Stories of natural disasters, illegal liquor establishments and mysterious explosions have been all but lost to time. Discover how Depot Square in Hope Valley survived three different floods that threatened to wipe the landmark off the map. From relics of the local Indian wars to the remnants of mysterious shipwrecks, South County is strewn with souvenirs from its fascinating history. In this collection of her most intriguing columns from the Chariho Times, local historian Kelly Sullivan Pezza uncovers the hidden gems of the county’s history.