National Grid Historic Bridge Mill Power Station

About This Site

Once the main source of power to downtown Pawtucket, the 1896 Bridge Mill Power Station was hailed as “the finest water power electric station in New England” in engineering publications at the time. It is composed of three major sections: gatehouse, power house, and boiler house. The central, power house section of the facility once housed five pairs of 33-inch McCormick turbines on the lower wheel-room level, each linked via pulleys and belts to the engine room one floor above. These water turbines worked with steam engines to produce power, contributing to the Blackstone River’s reputation as “the hardest working river in America.”

The power house was deactivated in the 1960’s, only open as a museum for a short time to visiting school groups in the 90’s. While this central power house is no longer operable, the adjacent facility continues to generate enough electricity each year to supply 1,300 homes. In 1983, the National Register of Historic Places cites the Bridge Mill Power Station as “perhaps the finest 19th century example of this building type remaining in Rhode Island.”

Behind The Scenes

Uncover vestiges of Pawtucket’s steam- and water-powered past.