December 11 is an important day in Rhode Island history, with significant events occurring throughout the state's past. Here are five interesting facts about December 11 in Rhode Island history:

1. The Rhode Island Statehouse was officially dedicated on December 11, 1904. The building, which is located in downtown Providence, serves as the state's capitol and houses the offices of many government officials. It was designed by McKim, Mead & White and features a neoclassical design.

2. On December 11, 1978, the USS Providence (SSN-719) was commissioned. The Providence was a Los Angeles-class submarine that served in the United States Navy from 1978 to 1998. The boat was named after the city of Providence and was the second US Navy vessel to bear that name.

3. The Narragansett Park race track held its final day of live racing on December 11, 1978. The track, which was located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, was one of the premier horse racing venues in the United States during the mid-20th century. However, the track struggled in the face of competition from other forms of gambling and ultimately closed its doors in 1978.

4. Rhode Island Governor Philip W. Noel declared a "state of emergency" on December 11, 1975. The declaration was made in response to a severe winter storm that had caused widespread power outages and transportation disruptions throughout the state. The emergency declaration allowed the state to activate its emergency response plan and quickly provide assistance to affected residents.

5. December 11 is also the birthday of Rhode Island native Governor Philip W. Noel, who was born in Providence in 1927. Noel served as governor from 1973 to 1977 and was known for his efforts to modernize the state government and promote economic development. However, his administration was also marred by a number of scandals, including a bribery scandal that would ultimately lead to his resignation in 1977.

These are just a few examples of the many interesting events that have occurred on December 11 in Rhode Island's history. Whether you are a native of the state or simply interested in its past, December 11 is a day worth remembering.