Mill Preservation in the Blackstone River Valley

This document describes a project which evaluated industrial mills along the Blackstone River in Rhode Island, built between 1793 and 1910, in order to prioritize their potential for renovation/ reuse. Scores of textile mills built before 1910 still exist in the Blackstone River Valley. Some have been retro-fitted for contemporary use. Many are vacant and not maintained. Structures were evaluated based on their historical and cultural significance and the physical condition of the existing structure. Findings also include sections on the problems associated with mill reuse and some common adaptive reuse options. Some of the successful mill-renovation projects may serve as models for future action