Historic Belknap Mill

NATION’S HISTORIC TEXTILE MILL Built in 1823, the Belknap Mill is the oldest, unaltered brick textile mill in the U.S. from the earliest days of the Industrial Revolution. It featured one of the first integrated models for textile manufacturing—the forebear of the modern assembly line. The Belknap Mill led the national industrial conversion from weaving to knitting in 1861 and was one of the first in the region to transition from water turbines to hydroelectric power in 1918. Until closing its doors in 1969, the Mill was a leading producer of hosiery— keeping the nation in socks through an era that included the Civil War and World Wars I and II. Soon after closing, it was slated for demolition to make way for a parking lot. In 1971, a group of dedicated citizens saved the Belknap Mill and preserved it as a non- profit community center for the arts and education. A CENTER FOR INDUSTRIAL HISTORY Witness the evolution of textile manufacturing in the United States... Original knitting machinery, turbines and power wheels provide real-life demonstrations of the inner-workings of an industrial-era textile mill. Exhibits and interactive artifacts explain how the Mill operated and tell stories about the men and women whose ingenuity and hard work contributed to the development of the region.

Meetings

The Belknap Mill hosts year-round community and civic events including concerts, craft fairs, networking socials, town hall forums and gala events. Whatever your age or interests, there are always exciting opportunities to gather at the Belknap Mill. The Belknap Mill is located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region—an area renowned for its beautiful rivers, lakes and mountains. For information about arts, education, community events and private rentals, information about the Belknap Mill Museum or for general inquiries about the Belknap Mill Society, email [email protected].

Weddings

WELCOME to your Riverside Celebration at the Belknap Mill where history and versatility come together to give you the wedding of your dreams. This magnificent brick structure, rich in history and character, offers a wonderful place for truly unforgettable events. We are committed to our mission of serving our community; providing a beautiful experience at an affordable price. Established in 1823, the Belknap Mill stands tall on the Winnipesaukee River as the last remaining, unaltered brick textile mill in the country. Showcasing its historic structure, the industrial brick walls are exposed within each space, and are accompanied by the rustic timber columns and beams that keep the building standing. With nearly 200 years of history, the Mill’s character cannot be duplicated. FOR LOVE, WE CAN DO ANYTHING... With multiple spaces to choose from and unlimited layouts, we are proud to offer the versatility you need to make your wedding dreams a reality.