Bricks and Stories Tours
of the historic Francis Cabot Lowell Mill 

Our popular outdoor walking tour returns!
Come see an evolution of a historic textile mill

Curious about the old mill complex by the river? Discover the history and architecture of the world’s first modern factory, the 1813 Boston Manufacturing Company, which lies right in your own backyard!

Take a walk by the river in the fresh air. Then have a delicious lunch at one of Waltham’s local eateries.  

It all starts at the Charles River Museum.

Bricks and Stories
Walking Tour #1:
From Bale to Bolt:
The First Integrated Factory

Learn how this maze of buildings developed from a single brick mill—and why that humble mill was a powerhouse of industry and innovation!

Hone your powers of observation as you learn to read the clues that demystify this and other mill sites in every corner of industrial New England. 

What:
Free, 75-minute guided tours with staff members of the Charles River Museum

(WEATHER PERMITTING)

Where:
Tours begin overlooking the river beneath the Charles River Museum smokestack. Follow signs from Landry Park off of Moody Street or the footbridge behind Embassy parking. We meet outside our Visitor Entrance.

Directions and Parking Info HERE 

We look forward to seeing you there!

The optimal size for this tour is up to 20 persons.
Groups are welcome to contact the museum to arrange a private tour.