Mill No. 5 | Lowell

Information

Landmark: Mill No. 5
City: Lowell
Country: USA Massachusetts
Continent: North America

Mill No. 5, Lowell, USA Massachusetts, North America

Mill No. 5 is a former industrial textile mill located in Lowell, Massachusetts. It is situated within the Lowell National Historical Park.

Visual Characteristics

Mill No. 5 is a brick structure with multiple stories. Its exterior features include arched windows and a prominent clock tower. The building's original red brick construction is visible, with some areas showing signs of weathering and repair. The overall architectural style aligns with 19th-century industrial design.

Location & Access Logistics

Mill No. 5 is located at 257 Dutton Street, Lowell, MA 01851. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) west of the Lowell city center. Parking is available in a designated lot adjacent to the building. Public transport options include the Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA) bus lines, with several routes stopping within a 5-minute walk of the mill.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Mill No. 5 began in 1868 and was completed in 1870. It was built by the Hamilton Manufacturing Company, one of the original textile corporations in Lowell. The mill's original purpose was the production of cotton textiles, contributing to Lowell's status as a major industrial hub during the 19th century.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the exterior of the mill and observe its historical architecture. The surrounding area offers walking paths that provide views of the Merrimack River and other historical industrial buildings. Interior access is generally limited to specific events or pre-arranged tours, which are not consistently available.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not consistently available within or immediately adjacent to Mill No. 5 for public access. Shade is limited around the immediate exterior of the building. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in this urban area. Food vendors are not present at the mill itself, but dining options are available in the nearby downtown Lowell area.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for exterior photography of Mill No. 5 is during daylight hours. Mid-morning or late afternoon light can provide favorable angles for capturing the brickwork and architectural details. Weather is generally suitable for outdoor viewing year-round, though extreme winter conditions may limit comfort.

Facts & Legends

Mill No. 5 is one of the few remaining mills in Lowell that retains a significant portion of its original structure. A specific historical oddity is that the mill was later repurposed for various industrial and commercial uses before its inclusion in the National Historical Park designation.