Located in the heart of the Blackstone Valley, Uxbridge played a pivotal role in America’s early industrial development. This historic town was once a bustling overnight stop along the Blackstone Canal, completed in 1824, which linked Worcester, Massachusetts, to Providence, Rhode Island. The canal served as a crucial artery for trade and transport, helping to spur the rapid growth of industry throughout the valley. Uxbridge became a prominent textile center, and the town’s skyline still reflects its industrial heritage, with the silhouettes of 19th-century mill chimneys still visible. Today, visitors can explore Uxbridge’s rich history and natural beauty through various sites and attractions, many of which offer a glimpse into the past and the area’s natural charm.
Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park
As a former key stop along the Blackstone Canal, Uxbridge is home to the Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park, a 1,000-acre site that preserves this vital piece of American history. The park features remnants of the old canal, including locks and towpaths, providing a window into the past when waterways were the lifeblood of industry. The park is not just a historical site but also a natural haven, offering trails that meander through forests and along riverbanks. These trails trace the paths once walked by the Nipmuc Native Americans and pass by industrial relics. The park is a hotspot for birdwatching, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and water activities such as canoeing and kayaking, making it a versatile destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.
Southwick’s Zoo
Just a short drive from Uxbridge, Southwick’s Zoo in Mendon is one of Massachusetts’ premier zoological attractions. This family-owned zoo, established on a homestead dating back to 1803, boasts a wide range of exhibits featuring over 100 animal species. Highlights include a walkthrough deer forest, a tropical bird aviary, and exhibits showcasing big cats and North American wildlife. Southwick’s Zoo also houses the largest collection of primates in New England and is the only zoo in the region where visitors can see chimpanzees. In addition to animal exhibits, the zoo offers family-friendly attractions such as a sky ride, a narrow gauge train, a petting zoo, and a large play area for children, making it a fun and educational outing for all ages.
Stanley Woolen Mill (Central Woolen Mills District)
Adjacent to the southern entrance of the Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park lies the Stanley Woolen Mill, a remarkable example of early industrial architecture. Built in 1852, this mill is significant for being one of the last major mechanized mills constructed entirely of wood. Throughout its history, the Stanley Woolen Mill produced various fabrics, including cashmeres and satinets, and played a crucial role in the manufacture of military uniforms during the Civil War and both World Wars. Today, the mill has been repurposed to house a mix of studios, offices, and retail spaces, including the popular Stanley Mill Antiques, preserving its industrial legacy while adapting to contemporary uses.
Uxbridge Common District
At the heart of Uxbridge lies the Uxbridge Common District, a historic area centered around a traditional New England common. This district is home to a collection of well-preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, reflecting the town’s rich architectural heritage. Notable structures include the Uxbridge Academy, established in 1818, which served as a preparatory school for many local figures who later became influential in the textile industry. The district also features the Renaissance Revival-style Free Public Library, the Federal-style First Congregational Church, the historic Deborah A. Wheelock House, and the Uxbridge Inn, all of which contribute to the town’s historic charm.
Whitinsville
A short distance upstream from Uxbridge, the Blackstone River passes through Whitinsville, a historic mill village in Northbridge. Recognized for its national historical significance, Whitinsville is a prime example of an intact planned industrial community. The village was home to the largest textile machinery manufacturer in the world during the 19th and early 20th centuries, founded by the Whitin family. Visitors to Whitinsville can see the old factory complexes, worker housing, churches, and community centers that were integral to the village’s operations and daily life, offering a glimpse into the early days of America’s industrial revolution.
Purgatory Chasm State Reservation
Just a ten-minute drive from Uxbridge’s town center, Purgatory Chasm State Reservation offers visitors a unique natural experience. This dramatic granite chasm, descending 70 feet and extending for a quarter mile, features rugged trails that lead to breathtaking precipices and intriguing caves. The park’s trails, with evocative names like Lovers’ Leap, the Coffin, and the Corn Crib, provide a sense of adventure and are popular with hikers and rock climbers alike. A visitor center offers educational exhibits about the chasm’s natural history, while a playground makes it a family-friendly destination.
Pout Pond
Located east of the state park, Pout Pond is a peaceful retreat nestled in the woods. This town-owned pond features a sandy beach, perfect for swimming and relaxing during the summer months. Lifeguards are on duty during peak times, and shaded picnic areas and playground equipment make it an ideal spot for a family outing. The surrounding woods offer trails that connect to those in the Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park, providing ample opportunities for hiking. Pout Pond has also served as a venue for public events, including outdoor concerts and movie screenings.
Lookout Rock
Lookout Rock, one of the most scenic spots in the Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park, offers stunning views of the Blackstone Valley. This vantage point is a popular spot for watching sunsets, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Access to Lookout Rock can be gained via the longer King Phillip’s Trail, which starts from the parking lot near Rice City Pond, or by a shorter route from another parking area on Wolf Hill Road. The panoramic views from Lookout Rock provide a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding landscape.
River Bend Farm Visitor Center
Situated on a historic dairy farm, the River Bend Farm Visitor Center serves as the gateway to the Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park. The farm, which operated from the Revolutionary era until the 1970s, was one of the first in the country to pasteurize its milk. Today, the visitor center provides valuable information on recreational activities within the park, such as birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. The upstairs exhibit area features displays and artifacts that explore the Blackstone Valley’s history, the evolution of the textile industry, and the impact of the canal on the local community.
Rice City Pond
Once an eyesore due to its past use as a junkyard, Rice City Pond has been transformed into a tranquil park that serves as a greenway in the Blackstone Valley. This area, with its serene pond and natural surroundings, is popular for canoeing and birdwatching. The park’s landscape was altered by the construction of a dam in the 19th century, which raised the pond’s water level. Although damaged by Hurricane Diane in 1955, the dam has since been repaired, albeit at a lower water level, preserving the pond’s beauty for future generations.
Uxbridge and the surrounding Blackstone Valley offer a rich tapestry of historical, natural, and recreational attractions. From exploring the remains of the Blackstone Canal to hiking scenic trails and visiting historic mills, the area provides a unique blend of history and nature. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Uxbridge has something to offer.
FAQs:
What is the Blackstone Canal, and why is it significant?
The Blackstone Canal was a major waterway completed in 1824 that connected Worcester, Massachusetts, to Providence, Rhode Island. It played a critical role in facilitating trade and transportation during the early 19th century, helping to ignite industrial growth along the Blackstone Valley.
What activities can visitors enjoy at the Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park?
Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and water activities such as canoeing and kayaking. The park also offers historical trails and scenic overlooks.
What makes Southwick’s Zoo special?
Southwick’s Zoo is notable for being a family-owned zoo with over 100 animal species, the largest collection of primates in New England, and the only place in the region to see chimpanzees. The zoo also features a variety of family-friendly attractions.