Place

Slater Mill Dam

Workers repairing the Slater Mill Dam
Workers repairing the Slater Mill Dam

Quick Facts
Significance:
Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution

Accessible Sites, Information, Parking - Auto, Picnic Table, Public Transit, Scenic View/Photo Spot

The waterfall directly behind Slater Mill is the result of the Blackstone River running over the Slater Mill Dam. The dam was installed in 1792 to slow down the natural flow of the water. The stored water could then be diverted through a gate, down the raceway and into the waterwheel. The weight of the water turned the waterwheel which harnessed the power that ran the machines in the mill.

Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

Last updated: December 17, 2021