Statement of Significance (as of designation - November 13, 1966):
Here, Samuel Slater (1768-1835) perfected America's first successful water-powered spinning machine in 1790, and helped to build the country's first successful cotton mill in 1793. His mill is operated as a museum.

The Slater Mill Building needs to be cleaned and painted. The building has sustained several bad winters and is in desperate need of winterizing to protect the wooden framed windows throughout. The eyebrow windows in the attic are warped and in need of repair. There are numerous exposed heating and sprinkler pipes running beneath the first floor and in the wheel pit that are in danger of freezing and doing some damage. A study should be conducted to determine the stability of the columns and stone and dirt walls in the wheel pit and to investigate the possibility of restoring and stabilizing the two turbines occupying the wheel pit. The Wilkinson Mill: The mortar holding the bricks in the bell tower are badly deteriorated in many places, allowing rainwater and condensation to seep into the building. The Wilkinson’s windows are badly in need of repair throughout.

Recommendation/Change since last report:
The mills need condition assessment reports, restoration, stabilization,and repair with technical assistance. The estimated cost of exterior painting of the Slater Mill is approximately $32,000. To repair roof flashing and apply preservative, the cost is approximately $10,000. To winterize the building, install concealed storms, install rigid installation beneath the first floor and atop the attic floor, repair eyebrow windows, and wrap exposed pipes, the estimated cost is $150,000. To mortar the 4 story bell tower, the estimated cost is $65,000 and to repair windows throughout, the estimated cost is $50,000.