News 2006

For Immediate Release

CONTACTS:
Robert Beadle, Media Liaison
Phone: 401-632-6573, E-mail: Robert@nepublications.com
OR
Lorraine Provencher, Coordinator
Phone: 401-724-2200, E-mail: bvfootsteps@aol.com
175 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860

SECOND ANNUAL FOOTSTEPS IN HISTORY WEEKEND SHOWCASES CULTURAL
AND HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS
New this year are guided bus tours of several historical and natural sites

PAWTUCKET, RI (September 13, 2006) – The 24 communities of the Blackstone River Valley are opening their doors to their best cultural and historical attractions, all on Columbus Day Weekend, October 7-9. Last year, the First Annual Footsteps in History program attracted over 4,000 visitors to the Blackstone Valley.

Many of the 100 sites featured during the Footsteps in History program are not open to the public on a regular basis. Some locations will be offering free admission.

The 46-mile river valley between Worcester, Massachusetts and Providence, supports a treasure trove of rare and unique homes, early industrial manufacturing operations, places of worship, timeless farms, a carousel, candy shop and Celtic folk theater.

New this year are guided bus tours which will allow visitors to experience multiple historical and natural sites in greater comfort. On Saturday, October 7, buses depart the Purgatory Chasm State Park in Sutton, Mass at 10 a.m. and stop at Waters Farm, Slatersville, Kelly House and Jenckes Store, ending at 3:45 p.m. On Sunday, October 8, buses depart Slater Mill in Pawtucket, R.I. at 10 a.m. and complete a similar tour at 3:55 p.m. Tickets cost $26 and include a boxed lunch. Seating is limited. Reservations can be made in advance by calling (401) 724-2200.

A Footsteps in History kick-off reception will provide media with the opportunity to hear remarks from members of the steering committee and sponsoring organizations. The reception will be held October 3 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Hearthside, 757 Great Road, Lincoln, RI.

“The annual Footsteps in History program is the best opportunity for us to encourage public support and participation for preserving our valley’s historic, cultural and natural assets,” said Robert Billington, President of the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council. “The Blackstone Valley is attracting more and more tourists each year and Footsteps is our flagship program designed to continue that growth.”

“More of our sites this year are allowing visitors to experience what life was like for our ancestors by providing hands-on activities such as combing cotton, churning butter, picking apples, and many other learning experiences for children and as well as adults.” said Lorraine Provencher, Footsteps in History Coordinator.

Known as the Birthplace of America’s Industrial Revolution, the 24 communities of the Blackstone River Valley were designated by President and Mrs. Bush and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation as Preserve America communities in 2004. To highlight this proud achievement, the region developed Footsteps in History to make all historical and cultural sites open and available to the public with open houses, artistic and interpretive programs, festivals and much more during this three-day event.

More than 100 tours, open houses and events have been listed. See Events for the complete list or pick up a brochure at area visitor centers. Call 1-800-454-2882 for more information.

About Footsteps in History

The Footsteps in History Preserve America Weekend “Five Centuries in Three Days” is a celebration of our national heritage in which the 24 communities of the Blackstone River Valley showcase about 100 cultural and historical attractions for the enjoyment of residents, tourists and their families. Footsteps in History was created by the Blackstone River Valley Tourism Collaborative, which includes the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, the John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, and the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce. Footsteps in History is sponsored by the Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission, the Massachusetts Historical Commission with grant funding from the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. See this website (events) for the complete list of events, pick up a brochure at area visitor centers or call 1-800-454-2882 for more information.

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