Blackstone Valley

 

The 1793 opening of Samuel Slater's cotton mill in Pawtucket ushered in a historical phenomenon now known as America's Industrial Revolution. Along the banks of the Blackstone River, for which the region is named, dozens of factories sprung up, employing generations of working-class families and drawing thousands of immigrants from around the world. Many serve today as factory outlet stores, art studios and artists' lofts.

Today visitors, school groups and history buffs alike are drawn to the region to explore its fascinating history and discover its important effects on America's growth as a manufacturing giant. Some of the region's most popular attractions are Slater Mill Historic Site (1793), river boat cruises aboard the Blackstone Valley Explorer, the Blackstone Valley National Heritage Corridor and the Children's Museum of Rhode Island.

The Heritage Corridor unites parks, a tow path running along an old canal, old industrial sites, museums, and a bicycle path. The Heritage Corridor is also the location of the Museum of Work and Culture in Woonsocket, which traces the contribution of French-Canadian labor and culture to Rhode Island.

Blackstone Valley offers a unique selection of factory outlets. Bargain hunters save on locally manufactured goods such as wool sweaters and scarves, textiles, fabrics and quilts.

In Pawtucket, McCoy Stadium is the home field for the Boston Red Sox' top farm team, and the site of the world's longest professional baseball game - thirty-three innings! When late summer hits, the New England Patriots take up pre-season practice in Smithfield on the campus of Bryant College.