Crompton (West Warwick) facts for kids
Crompton is a small community located in West Warwick, Rhode Island, in the United States. It's a place with a rich history, especially known for its early industrial past. The community was named after Samuel Crompton, a famous inventor from England. He invented the spinning mule, a machine that greatly helped in making thread and fabric.
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What is Crompton Known For?
Crompton is well-known for its historic mill and an important old church. These buildings tell us a lot about how the community grew and changed over time.
The Historic Crompton Mill
The Crompton Mill was built a long time ago, in 1807. It sits on the eastern side of the Pawtuxet River. Many people believe this mill was the very first stone mill ever built in Rhode Island. Imagine a building made of strong stone, standing for over 200 years!
How the Mill Changed Over Time
The original stone building is still there today. However, it has been changed quite a bit since it was first built. By 1881, two more floors were added to the mill. These additions allowed the mill to make even more fabric. They started producing materials like corduroy and special cloth for printing designs. This shows how important the mill was for making textiles in the area.
Old St. Mary Church
Crompton is also home to a very special building called Old St. Mary Church. This church was built in 1844. It holds the title of being the oldest Roman Catholic church building in the entire state of Rhode Island. It's a significant landmark that shows the history of faith and community in Crompton.
