Discover Coventry's Lace Mill History

With Coventry's Own Doug Dwyer

Join Doug Dwyer, our local expert, historian & researcher, reenactor, and cemetery volunteer, who has spent countless hours digitizing the town of Coventry’s archives.

The "Lace Capital" of America!

Coventry is steeped in a rich history of lace manufacturing, with iconic mills like the Harris Mill and Anthony Mill standing as testaments to the town’s industrial past. During the height of the Industrial Revolution, these mills played a crucial role in shaping Coventry’s textile industry, helping the town become a key player in the booming American manufacturing scene.

Lace Mill Workers

In the 1800s, lace mill workers in Coventry were integral to RI’s thriving textile industry. Workers toiled long hours in challenging conditions, often in noisy and poorly ventilated spaces. Despite the tough work, these mill workers helped build a strong, industrious community in Coventry, their labor forming the backbone of the local economy and leaving a lasting legacy in the town’s history.

Thursday, December 4th from 6 - 7 p.m.

Coventry Public Library, 1672 Flat River Road. Free & open to the public. No registration required, but if you’d like a friendly reminder two days before, let us know you’re coming by calling 401-822-9104 or emailing JCoppa@coventrylibrary.org.

A "RI250" Event!  Brought to you by a collaboration of the Coventry Public Library, Nathanael Greene Homestead, Paine House, and the Town of Coventry.