BUILDINGS & FACILITIES

Configured of five buildings totaling 32,000 sf., it is situated on a 1+ acre parcel abutting the Mumford River and Ring Shop Dam. The property is strategically located adjacent to a heavily trafficked bridge that accesses the Whitinsville business district and municipal building. Important buildings included in this complex are:

The Brick Mill:
The oldest primary building on the site is the 8,100 sf., 4-story Brick Mill (1826). The Mill is believed to be one of the earliest cotton mills erected in New England, and is considered by the National Park Service to be one of the finest examples of original undisturbed Federalist architecture in the country. The Mill is on the State Register of historic Places. Restoration of the mill has preserved one of the earliest sites of America's Industrial Revolution. This building now houses retail areas for artisans to work and sell their creations, and three, two-bedroom apartments for people with developmental disabilities. Future plans include a museum that will educate the public about the Blackstone Valley's rich industrial heritage and modern uses of historic technologies.

The Forge:
Originally built in 1782 with a reconstruction in 1875, the 900 sf., Forge is the unique highlight of the property. It is a historically pristine structure and is on the State Register of Historic Places. This one room building will provide space, in the spirit of its original use, for artisans such as glassblowers or blacksmiths. Together with the Whitin Mill, these features will be part of the future museum.

The Workshop Building:
Constructed in 1905, this 9,500 sf. Building is now home to Alternatives' administrative headquarters. The first floor contains the Aldrich Heritage Art Gallery. This gallery, dedicated to Spaulding R. Aldrich, a long-time supporter and friend of the organization, features an ongoing and ever changing variety of historic, artistic, and educational displays for visitors to enjoy through bi-monthly artisan showcases.

Performance Center and Training Facility:
This 9,000 sf., multi-use facility includes space for the performing arts, community gatherings, and ongoing professional development. The first floor of this building houses a Career Center that provides job skill training and employment services for twenty-five people. The first floor, also, has space designated for a riverfront restaurant. On the second floor is the GB & Lexi Singh Performance Center, a state of the art, multi-use performance, training, conference center, and community event venue. The center is a flexible space suitable for theatre, concerts, speeches, trainings, professional conferences, and other community uses.

The Office Building:
Constructed in 1944, this 5,200 sf., two-story brick building is the newest building in the complex. The first floor is used for Supported Living and Shared Living program offices. The downstairs is home to some of the Whitin Mill's resident artists.

Community Plaza:
This 4,000 sf. open area, overlooking the Mumford River, serves as a centerpiece for the site and is an outstanding community cultural events venue. The plaza is open to the public and typically has a full schedule of events; some examples of Alternatives' annual events that take place on the Plaza are Valley Friendship Tour (Alternatives signature fundraiser), a Farmer's Market (August - September), and a Pumpkin Festival (late October). The Plaza is a perfect place for people of all abilities to enjoy common interests!

Your Name in History - Purchase a Paver! Pavers are showcased throughout the Riverside Community Plaza, and are available for a tax deductible donation. Supporters have used their pavers for dedications, quotes, and "in-memoriam". Prices vary based on size of paver. Click here to order a paver.