 |
Fall River MA |
|
|
In the mid-19th century, Fall River was a boom textile town. Because of its natural harbor, ample waterpower, and a moist climate ideal for working thread, it became a world textile-weaving center. |
||
|
Huge mills (factory buildings) made from blocks of the local granite were built everywhere, making an awesome scene of industry and wealth. But in the 20th century, the textile business began moving to the southern states, and Fall River's industry foundered. Prosperity has returned to Fall River, and now many of the impressive granite mills produce finished apparel; others turn out rubber products, foods, and paper. The town's new Government Center, built on the airspace over I-195, is a symbol of Fall River's resurgence and adds its impressive appearance to that of the great mills. Today most visitors come to Fall River to shop in the many factory outlet stores, and to visit the World War II battleship and submarine docked at Battleship Cove. Fall River's other claim to fame is the celebrated Lizzie Borden murder trial of 1892, in which Lizzie, a young Fall River girl, was tried for chopping up her parents with an axe. It's good to remember that the poor girl was acquitted. The guilty party was never found. |
|
| |