The Willows Inn & Resort

Located In Scenic Charlestown, Rhode Island

 The Willows Inn & Resort is located in scenic Charlestown, Rhode Island on historic route 1A.  The Willows is a 15 acre estate nestled right on Foster Cove, a salt water pond.  The Willows has a rich history dating back more than 80 years!  Your hosts The Duhamel family has owned and operated this Inn & Resort since it’s humble beginnings and the fourth generation is currently serving it’s guests.

We truly offer a little something special for everyone! Our guests can choose from one of our unique stay style options; Motel, Villa, Apartment, Camp, Townhouse or Cottage.  Depending on the size of your party we have stay options to fit your needs.

Our History

Before 1932 only three one room cottages stood on what is now called The Willows Inn & Resort. Edward C. Duhamel, born in 1895, in East Providence, to French speaking Canadian immigrants, set out on his own business ventures at the age of sixteen. Harriet Barnes from a family of twelve who regularly put on clambakes over the summer months at the Rhode Island shore, met Edward while he was chauffeuring for a family in Watch Hill. In 1921 the two were wed. By 1932, with Edward still chauffeuring, they combined their talents to build and operate a small restaurant on Foster’s Cove, in Charlestown Rhode Island. The original stone foundation still stands, as does the spring that was used for water and cooling delicious watermelon for shore dinners and clambakes. The great hurricane of 1938 shifted the building off its foundation to the present site.

Edward and Harriet’s sons, Kenneth and Clifford worked hard at the family business, Clifford doubling while his brother was away in the Second World and Korean Wars. Permanent clambake pits were installed in the ground and a pavilion erected to house tables and a small kitchen. The popular Duhamel clambakes continued serving such reputable organizations as Police, Fire departments, United States Post offices and Hospitals. In 1962 the two story motel building was built, others were added in 1967, 1975 and 1979. The third generation of the Duhamel family now continues to uphold the high standards established in those early days.