Join us for a free virtual series of winter workshops on how people have worked, rested, and played in the Blackstone River Valley. Together with historians, artists, and craftspeople, we’ll explore the struggle for a balanced life of work and wellness.
These presentations were recorded and are available on the Park's YouTube channel. See below for links to each of the presentations
January 29 - Discussion on Work
What is it like to work in a restored mill building?
Join us for a brief ranger-led history of Slater Mill and an insiders' view of Hope Artiste Village. We'll be joined by the Outsider Collective and Anastasia Azure, artists who work in the Hope complex. Together, we will talk about new uses for old buildings in and around Pawtucket, and how concepts of work have changed over time. Click here to watch a recording of this presentation.
February 12 - Discussion on Rest
During the past two years, a staggering number of people have left their jobs in the midst of a global pandemic. Millions of workers have also reported unprecedented levels of burnout. With this in mind, what can histories of workplace injuries and mental health teach us today? For this discussion, labor history scholar Robert Forrant will offer an overview and history of how industrial accidents have been managed. We'll also be joined by Paul Piwko with Alexandra Orlandi, who coordinate the National Museum of Mental Health Project, Inc. They will share the local area's history of national leadership with respect to mental health, as well as a discussion prompt about mental health and wellness at work. Click here to watch a recording of this presentation.
February 26 - Discussion on Play
What do you do with your free time? For centuries, workers who have reported their time or been bound to a clock have struggled for more opportunities for leisure. During this talk, rangers will offer a short history of Slater Mill, as both an industrial workplace and later, as a place where people could ride bicycles for pleasure indoors. We'll also be joined by Joe LyonWurm, the founder of Pedal Powered Anthropology, a highly creative approach to blending fitness and education about human history. Click here to watch a recording of this presentation.
