What Is Old Slater Mill?
This was America’s first working textile mill!
What Makes It Historical?
Born in Derbyshire, England in 1768, Samuel Slater was indentured to the co-owner of a textile mill, Jedediah Strutt. In the home of the Strutts, Mr. Slater learned the ins and outs of operating a textile mill, especially how to built, operate, and maintain mill machines! With the textile business exploding in England and struggling in the US, Mr. Slater snuck away, dressed as a farm laborer, and arrived in New York City in 1789, bringing with him all the secrets that the British government wanted to keep under wraps!
Soon after arriving, he heard that Moses Brown of Pawtucket was trying, and failing, to build a mill. A ten-week trial period with the company of Almy and Brown led to the perfection of their machines, including the keystone: a functional carding machine! Mr. Slater then whipped Almy and Brown into shape. Rather than turn on the machines only when they had an order, Mr. Slater insisted that they always be running! He hired children specifically, between seven and ten years of age, with small hands and low wages, and by the end of 1792, they produced enough to warrant a mill. In particular, this mill specialized in yarn—twist yarn and stocking yarn—sold wholesale! Opening a second mill across the Blackstone River, Mr. Slater ran business deals with his brother, John, and his in-laws, the Wilkinsons, across New England, and he spent the rest of his life prospering!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Volunteer with the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor!
- Donate to the Old Slater Mill Association!
- Be a responsible visitor! Remember the old adages: Pack out what you pack in! Take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints!
How Do I Get There?
67 Roosevelt Avenue
Pawtucket, RI 02860
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit the Park?
Park grounds are open daily from dawn until dusk! The visitor center at Slater Mill has limited hours, though. In summer, it’s open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM! In spring, it’s open Fridays and Saturdays from 12:00 PM until 4:00 PM, and it’s closed all winter!
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