Blackstone Viaduct

The Blackstone Viaduct is a granite railroad bridge that spans across the landscape using multiple masonry arches and an earthen support structure. The construction crosses the Blackstone River valley and combines two different engineering methods in a single structure.

The Boston, Hartford and Erie Railroad built this structure in 1872 to establish a direct rail link between New York City and Boston. The project was part of major railroad expansion throughout the northeastern United States.

The structure symbolizes the era when rail lines reshaped local economies and connected isolated communities to broader trade networks.

The site has walking trails nearby that offer different views of the structure and the river valley below. Visit during daylight hours to see the masonry details and the landscape clearly.

The structure blends an extensive earthen embankment with multiple stone arches, demonstrating two contrasting engineering methods in a single work. This combination of materials and approaches was an innovative solution for the challenging terrain at the time.

Location: Blackstone

GPS coordinates: 42.01530,-71.53330

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:11