About Slatersville
One cannot talk about the town of Slatersville without first telling the “Slatersville Story.” It’s the story of how a little trac of land in Northern RI became to be one of the most historically significant areas in the country. A village that was so successful, that all other planned communities in the nation were modeled after the mill village of Slatersville.
The story begins in 1803 when John Slater, son of Samuel Slater sought a location for a textile mill and found his way to Slatersville by traveling along the banks of the Blackstone River. The original mill was built in 1807 and owned and operated by the Slater family. The Slaters built housing for their employees, a company store, and the church that sits on the village green. What was created was a self-sustaining community with the town being anchored by the mill, the church, and the store. The food that fed the village was grown by the employees that were farmers prior to the establishment of the village. This model was so successful that it was the blueprint for all other mill villages in the country that followed.
A significant preservation project ensued in the 1920’s when the mill was sold to the Kendalls. The village today looks much like it did in 1920, where very little has changed. It’s like a picture out of a story book. The buildings with its Greek Revival architecture each tell their own story and provide a powerful connection to the history of America and it’s rich history.
There is a certain pride amongst those that live in Slatersville that feel very lucky to live here, to have been raised here, and to have raised a family here. Those that left Slaterville to live in other places and even in other parts of the world never lose their bond with Slatersville.
About the Neighborhood
Within walking distance of 4 Greene Street are the North Smithfield Public Library, Post Office, Brigido’s Shopping Plaza, restaurants, churches, Upper Dam canoe launch. The close proximity to major highways makes the area convenient for any commute. Providence and Worcester are 30 minutes away.
Things to do
Northern RI has something for everybody. Now that Northern RI is part of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, there are many things to do and see. Please visit these websites to get a glimpse cultural events and places to explore.