Jaffrey Mills facts for kids
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Jaffrey Mills
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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 Location in New Hampshire
Location in the United States
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| Location | 41 Main St., Jaffrey, New Hampshire |
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| Area | 1.4 acres (0.57 ha) |
| Built | 1868 |
| Part of | East Jaffrey Historic District (ID02000642) |
| NRHP reference No. | 82004992 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | August 10, 1982 |
| Designated CP | June 14, 2002 |
The Jaffrey Mills is a really old and important building complex in Jaffrey, New Hampshire. It's made up of several brick buildings right next to the Contoocook River. These buildings were once a busy factory where cotton fabric was made. Today, they have been turned into homes! This historic place was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 because of its special history.
Contents
A Look at Jaffrey Mills
What is Jaffrey Mills?
The Jaffrey Mills complex is located at 41 Main Street in the center of Jaffrey. It includes many connected brick buildings. These buildings sit right along the Contoocook River. The oldest parts of the mill are on the west side of the river. They were built in 1868. These older buildings have special sloped roofs called mansard roofs. They also have decorative brick patterns.
The main mill building once had a tall tower with a small dome on top. This dome was removed in the early 1900s. In 1872, another building was added on the east side of the river. Later, in 1897, wooden bridges were built to connect the buildings on both sides. At the same time, the east building was made longer. More additions were built later, like a storage area and a loading dock.
Why is Jaffrey Mills Important?
The Jaffrey Mills complex is the only large factory from the 1800s built in Jaffrey. Because of its unique history, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. This means it's recognized as a special place worth protecting. Today, these old factory buildings have been changed into modern homes.
The Story of Jaffrey Mills
Early Days and First Owners
The oldest buildings at Jaffrey Mills were built in 1868 by a man named Alonzo Bascom. He was the local postmaster. However, he became sick and couldn't use the buildings for his plans. So, in 1871, he sold them to a company called Stone Brothers and Curtis.
Making Cotton and More
Stone Brothers and Curtis built the mills on the east side of the river. They started making woven cotton fabric. They also used the river's power to run a grist mill, which grinds grain, and different woodworking shops. Their business didn't last very long. This was because of tough economic times after the American Civil War. They closed their doors in 1876.
New Owners and Challenges
After Stone Brothers and Curtis, a company called White Brothers took over the property. They came from Winchendon, Massachusetts. The White Brothers continued to make textiles, which are fabrics, at the mill. They kept the factory running until 1939. At that time, the mill had to close because of the Great Depression. This was a very difficult time when many businesses struggled.
From Factory to Homes
After 1939, the Jaffrey Mills buildings were used for different kinds of light industrial work during the middle of the 20th century. This means they were used for smaller manufacturing or assembly jobs. Eventually, the buildings were bought and changed into the homes you see there today.
