Northbridge, Massachusetts, was born from the textile industry’s boom along the Blackstone River in the 19th century. Originally a part of Mendon and later Uxbridge, the town’s identity was forever shaped by the Whitin family and their Whitin Machine Works, which became the world’s largest manufacturer of textile machinery. The family built not only the mills but also a comprehensive company town, particularly in the village of Whitinsville, providing housing, public buildings, and a structured community for a diverse immigrant workforce. The preserved 19th-century architecture of these mill villages, now part of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, stands as a testament to this period of intense industrialization and the rise of the American company town.

Today, Northbridge has transitioned from its industrial past to become a suburban community, serving as a bedroom community with a rich, preserved history. While many of the old mill buildings no longer operate at full capacity, they have been creatively repurposed into housing and business incubators, breathing new life into the historic structures. The town’s location offers residents a mix of suburban living and easy access to major cities like Worcester, Boston, and Providence. Northbridge’s commitment to its heritage is evident in its active tourism committee and its place within the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, ensuring that the story of its industrial roots continues to be told.