There is so much data to collect and aggregate -- so many possibilities, but what is most important to know?

Here are some ideas that scope out the problem.

Information about community gardens might show up in these places: web pages, newsletter stories, conversations with leaders and gardeners, photos, videos, newspaper articles, archival and library files... [Any other places to look for info on RI community gardens? Specific websites?]

A great source of general Rhode Island information is Quahog.org. They of course have examples of frequently used no-longer-standing landmarks, plus reflections on why Rhode Islanders might give directions in this way. See:

On June 1st, 2011, the special celebration of Providence's 375-year history (of European settlement) began. At that morning's ceremony, it was also made clear that the observance recognizes the thousands of years that the Narragansett and other indigenous peoples lived in this place.