Blackstone River

The Blackstone River was formed about 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. It travels roughly 48 miles from its headwaters in Worcester, MA, to the Pawtucket Falls in Pawtucket, RI. During the industrial revolution, the Blackstone River and its tributaries were home to over one hundred mills and mill villages, making it one of the busiest industrial areas in the United States. Although business was booming, it became polluted with heavy metals. These heavy metals sank into the bottom of the river and are still a source of pollution in the river today. The river also became a dumping ground for trash. By the 1960s, the Blackstone was one of the most polluted rivers in the United States.

Thanks to the effort of the community, including the grassroots group ZAP!, the river’s health has improved significantly and today animals such as beavers, river otters, snapping turtles and 20 different species of fish have returned. “Once America’s hardest working river, today the Blackstone is a place of recreation, reflection, and renewal.”

Learn more and plan your visit to the iconic natural landmark.

History of The Baldwin Loop Walking Path 

The Baldwin Loop Walking Path, established in 2017 by The Empowerment Factory, is the first walking path in Pawtucket. It is highlighted during the Healthy Living Community Event each year and has since become a beloved community asset. The path winds through the area surrounding Baldwin Elementary School and features artwork created by community members and local students. 

Residents are encouraged to use the path for exercise and engage in various activities accessed through QR codes placed along the way. Since 2017, the Baldwin Loop Scavenger Walk has been an integral part of the Healthy Living Community Event, promoting both physical activity and community involvement. 

In 2024, The Empowerment Factory will debut new artwork along the path, featuring historic locations throughout Pawtucket. QR codes will provide information on each location, enhancing the educational aspect of the walk. The scavenger walk, scheduled from September 1 to September 7, promises to be a highlight of the 2024 Healthy Living Community Event.