Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park is often described as the Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution.

The park runs from Worcester, Massachusetts to Providence, Rhode Island and is home to some of the richest history in the United States. This stretch of water housed several textile mills that powered the American Industrial Revolution and helped move the American workforce from farm to factory. It is home to Slater Mill, the first successful water powered cotton-spinning factory in the United States, located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

The birth of this mill helped spread water powered mills all across New England, bringing with it new homes, schools, churches, immigrants, and communities. Visitors to Blackstone River Valley can explore its vast history, enjoy walking tours, paddle along the river, or bike along the soon-to-be-completed Blackstone River Bikeway stretching 48 miles from Worcester, MA to India Point Park in Providence, RI and connecting with East Bay Bikepath.