JHC Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor

(Photo - River Bend Farm, Oak Street, Uxbridge)

Recreation // River Recreation

The Blackstone River Valley is a unique and profoundly historic region filled with diverse ethnic groups that have profoundly enriched the fabric of early traditions and strong values that triggered the American Industrial Revolution. The unique blend of New England hilltop and mill villages along the Blackstone River chronicles an enriching experience into America's past.

The Valley stretches from Worcester south to Providence and includes 24 communities, each unique historically and recreationally. All twenty-four communities have been designated as America Preserve communities by the Secretary of the Interior and First Lady Laura Bush. A special weekend annually highlights over 120 special sites where they are all open called Footsteps in History.

The annual multi-cultural events or recreational events also offer a plethora of excitement and learning while visually soaking in the landscapes of America's earliest days. Walking tours, kayaking races, concerts and theatre, galleries and specialty shops abound. So, experience the Blackstone River Valley.......and many of its more  hidden treasures! Discover the Valley Guide

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Since 1986, the National Heritage Corridor has been funded by Congress to effect major clean-up and remediation of the industrially- utilized Blackstone River. Over $19 million has been spent and the Blackstone river and valley have enjoyed an incredible renaissance with more efforts and planning still ahead. Nearly two decades prior to this federal commitment, two private citizens rallied a commitment and a realization that the Blackstone River could offer a wonderful, healthy future for the Valley residents if the tons and tons of debris were cleaned up. Grants and tremendous volunteer efforts continue today.

Parts of the original Blackstone Canal have continually been discovered which provide a glimpse into the early 1800s and the dynamic changes which transformed our communities into more accessible commerce destinations from Providence to Worcester.

Canal Conservancy   A Short History on the Blackstone Canal 

A major effort to restore the Blackstone River continues today by an incredible partnership with the goal of a fishable, swimmable river by 2015. But incredible opportunities already exist for fun, romance, educational or historical pursuits  as seen in the beautiful blend of old and new within Providence and the throngs of visitors to the incredible Waterfire experience. Charming villages along the Blackstone canal dot the Corridor amidst the Valley's twenty-four Blackstone Valley towns filled with noble histories and intriguing sites. The blend of educational and cultural experiences, scenic landscapes and recreational  events, such as kayaking, birding, fishing, or the Bike Path, offer just a few of the many days to explore, shop and enjoy!