By 1875, there were approximately seventy Armenians in America one of whom, Hagop Boghigian, settled in Worcester, Massachusetts. Many of his relatives followed, some of whom resettled in Rhode Island. Thus, the Providence community became an extension of the Worcester community. By 1000 the Providence community grew to 35. Following the Hamidian massacres of 1894-1896, Armenians seeking freedom and protection came to these shores in increasing numbers; as 1897 community census showed more than five hundred residents.

The missionary connection in Providence was a strong influence for the early immigrants. Park Place Congregational Church in Pawtucket was the headquarters of the American church missionaries who had worked in Western Armenia. Area universities were another inducement, as were the factories developing in Providence known as "The Five Industrial Wonders of the World". These world-class factories included the world's largest tool factory - Brown and Sharpe as well as Nicholson file, Corliss Steam Engine, American Screw and Gorham. Additionally, the Port of Providence brought immigrants directly to Providence on ship lines such as Fabre Line from Marseilles, France which had had an influx of Armenian massacre and genocide survivors. The Industrial Revolution produced lobs in Providence as well as Pawtucket. Central Falls and Woonsocket. Factory owners needed workers. Often recruiters and foremen representing various factoriesInterviewed and hired men on the decks of the arriving ships

There was animosity between older immigrant groups and the new the Armenian immigrants. Initially, the men shared housing (often 5 or 6 to a room) within walking distance of the factories at Smith Hill, Pawtucket and Central Falls. After work, the Armenians learned English at night classes taught by volunteers