In 1675, a friendly Indian reported to English colonists that Wampanoag sachem Metacom (also known as King Philip) was planning to exterminate the colonists. Metacom had the informer killed, and the colonists tried and executed his killers. These incidents soon blossomed into the short but brutal conflict known as King Philip's War.
On Sunday December 19, 1675, a large body of English colonists, aided by a few hundred friendly Indians, attacked an island fortress village in Rhode Island's Great Swamp. In this village were several hundred Wampanoag women and children, who were under the protection of the neutral Narragansett tribe. The battle that took place, known as the Great Swamp Fight, marked the defeat of the Narragansetts.
A few survivors joined other tribes in CT and western RI. Others apparently retreated to a stronghold on the borderline between the modern towns of North Kingstown and Exeter. Here they rallied around their queen, Quaiapen. Although only a few miles from an English fort, Quaiapen's band held out for the rest of the war in this natural hilltop fortress formed by an ancient glacial moraine. The site was not discovered by the English until after the war, when Quaiapen's band had moved to Connecticut, where they met their final fate.
Early histories of the area claim that Quaipen lived in an underground cavern that was very well hidden. Perhaps, as you search for this cache, you will discover it.
Drive west on Stony Lane to just west of the intersection with Narrow Lane. Look for a dirt road leading into the woods at N41 35.564 W71 31.273. You can park on Stony Lane, or if you have 4WD, venture into the woods on the dirt road. This is state property. There are at least two paths that lead up the hill from the dirt road to the remarkable hilltop redoubt. Be sure to take some time to explore this fascinating area.
Coordinates adjusted slightly on October 11, 2004.
Cache adopted by kiki_bianca and replaced on September 17, 2023. Lock & Lock.
*** Please rehide under natural cover ***
Accessibility in snow - May be difficult in deep snow.