Pawtucket Falls - Lowell, MA
N 42° 38.927 W 071° 20.014
19T E 308710 N 4724453
Originally the Pawtucket Falls were completely natural.
Waymark Code: WM57FM
Location: Massachusetts, United States
Date Posted: 11/23/2008
Views: 18
The waterfall and rapids below it drop a total of 32 feet in about a mile. The Pawtucket Falls also flow north bound. This was at one time a fishing grounds for the Pennacook Indians. For more on them check the link (
visit link) .
By the early 1800's the falls had been augmented to accomodate a vast canal system. This quickly lead to Lowell becoming the first planned factory town, ushering in the birth of America's Industrial Revolution. Over the next 30 years, hydropower from the falls ran Lowell's numerous textile factories via the city's canal system.
The Lowell Power Canal System remains the largest power canal system in the United States, at 5.6 miles in length.
During spring thaw is when you'll really get to see the power of the Merrimack River. During the hot summer months, however, most of the river is diverted into the canal system. Which by the way has lead the Parks Dep't. offer white water rafting. You even go through a couple of the locks!
On the side of the falls closest to Varnum Ave. there is also a salmon ladder.
For most people, the bridge over the Merrimack River gives a pretty good view.