Galilee Salt Marsh

History

How did early European settlers use the salt marsh?

Almost 300 years ago, during the Colonial time period the Galilee area was known as Point Judith Neck. The Colonists used the land for farming. The rich pastures, created by the melting of glaciers 10,000-12,000 years ago, supported the grasses to feed horses, cattle, and sheep. The major crops were corn, potatoes, and oats.

In addition to the harbor that allowed for transporting agricultural products, the salt pond served as a safe refuge for boats transporting goods to Providence, Newport, other coastal ports in the east, and the Caribbean.