In the early days, Rhode Island was made up of outcasts and misfits. These colonial residents were also innovators, and little Rhode Island turned out to be the birthplace of a revolution that changed the world. Today, you can visit The Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark, which is the cornerstone of the Blackstone River Valley Historical Park. Here’s more about the “Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution.”
Slater Mill was powered by water flowing from the Blackstone River. Samuel Slater’s machines produced the first cotton thread in 1793.
Flickr/ Doug Kerr
It was the first successful water-powered cotton-spinning factory in America.
Flickr/ Jef Nickerson
Because of its success, many other mills were opened in the area that copied Slater Mill’s management style.
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Mill villages sprung up, and employing entire families was known as “The Rhode Island System” of manufacturing.
Flickr/ Shaun C. Williams
Slater Mills campus is a popular spot for school field trips and other groups.
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A historical interpreter demonstrates a loom at Slater Mill.
Flickr/ Shaun C. Williams
“Narrow fabrics”, like laces and webbing, are a traditional industry of Pawtucket.
Flickr/ Shaun C. Williams
Wilkinson Mill gives visitors a look at water power in action as one of the only operating exhibits like it.
Flickr/ Timothy Burling
Water from the Blackstone River races through the mill race, turning the 16,000 pound water wheel.
Flickr/ Doug Kerr
The historic garden is tended by the University of Rhode Island Master Gardeners. Much of the food it produces is donated to the Blackstone Valley Emergency Food Center
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The staff is dressed in period costume and are experts on every aspect of 1700’s life at the mill.
Flickr/ David Wilson
The mill exclusively made cotton thread until 1829, and continued producing various things until 1921.
Flickr/ Doug Kerr
Herstandard museum tour admission includes a tour of all three historic structures on the campus and lasts around 90 minutes.Group tours are also available. Tours are led by trained professional interpreters that are well versed in the rich history of Slater Mill. Visit Slater Mill at 67 Roosevelt Avenue in Pawtucket, open in March on Saturdays and Sundays 11 to 3.
Flickr/ Doug Kerr
Flickr/ Jef Nickerson
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Flickr/ Shaun C. Williams
Flickr/ Timothy Burling
Flickr/ David Wilson
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