Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park preserves mill buildings, water wheels, and industrial structures from the early factories that lined the river. The park displays how water power was used to operate spinning mills and other manufacturing facilities across multiple sites.

The first water-powered cotton mill was established in 1793 and started industrial manufacturing in the region. The valley then developed rapidly as more mills were built, transforming the landscape and economy over the next hundred years.

The mills drew thousands of immigrants who built communities, established churches and schools, and left lasting marks on local neighborhoods. Visitors can still see how these settlements shaped the valley's character and layout.

The park can be entered at multiple locations and is open daily, with guided tours available at the Slater Mill Historic Site from Thursday through Sunday. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since paths along the river and between sites often have uneven terrain.

A 48-mile bikeway connects Worcester to Providence, following the route where materials and goods traveled during industrial times. Today cyclists can ride this same path and observe how the river landscape has changed since the mills operated.

Location: Providence County

Location: Worcester County

Inception: December 19, 2014

Website: https://nps.gov/blrv

GPS coordinates: 41.87749,-71.38240

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03