Free Labor Day Open House at the Museum of Work & Culture

Celebration to Feature Talk from Artist Steve Dunwell and New Slatersville Episode

(WOONSOCKET, R.I.) – The Museum of Work & Culture, a museum of the Rhode Island Historical Society, will host its annual free Labor Day Open House on Monday, September 1, from 10 am - 4 pm, featuring exhibits, talks, and screenings inspired by work and recreation in historic mill towns.

At 11 am, visitors will be invited to a special talk from artist Steve Dunwell on his photography exhibit With These Hands, which will be on view in the Museum’s Landmark Medical Center Gallery until October 25. With These Hands highlights the thousands of workers who brought their skills and tenacity to the mill every day as the textile industry was fading in New England in the 1970s. With These Hands is an opportunity to learn more about these workers and their stories.

At 1:30 pm, filmmaker Christian de Rezendes will premiere Episode 9 of his acclaimed documentary series Slatersville: America’s First Mill Village. Entitled “Exodus,” this latest installment explores Slatersville post-World War II as the town ceases to be a functioning mill village after 150 years. The newly unemployed struggle to find new work, new identities, and hold onto their history amid the upheaval of the Blackstone Valley mill closures and the Vietnam War. Despite these troubles, the 1972 clean-up of the Blackstone River presents an opportunity for hope. Advanced registration is required for the screening, with free tickets available at rihs.simpletix.com.

Throughout the day, visitors will also have the opportunity to meet local historian and author Gregory Duhamel. Duhamel’s work has focused on uncovering and preserving the rich history of the Blackstone Valley, and his efforts have helped to protect and save numerous historic cemeteries in the region. Amongst other titles, he is the author of the recently published book Clinton Oval: A Lost Mill City Ballpark, which highlights the history of the park and the many baseball legends who played there, including Babe Ruth and Woonsocket’s own Nap Lajoie.

Also available throughout the day will be a family activity station, with crafts and hands-on opportunities for all ages.

This event is made possible with the support of the Rhode Island Labor History Society.