The North Smithfield Heritage Assn (NSHA) plans to conduct a cleanup of the Mammoth Mill Park on Mill Street as well as the nearby Blackstone Canal from 9 to noon on Monday, January 16. This is in conjunction with a Volunteer Day organized by the Blackstone River Valley Heritage Corridor.
When it was built in 1828, the Blackstone Canal allowed canal boats to transport passengers and heavy loads of freight between Providence and Worcester. When the Mammoth Mill was built in 1836 it was the largest mill in the United States. It was demolished in 1930. Today, these significant historic landmarks are part of a town park.
The NSHA delayed this ZAP 2022 cleanup event due in large part to poison ivy along the Canal. Now that the weed is dormant, it’s safer to work along the canal. Volunteers plan to pick up trash and clear trees and brush from trails and mill ruins. Thus far several volunteers from Upton, Blackstone, and North Smithfield have committed to participate.
The long-range forecast calls for scattered showers and temps in the low 40’s. Workers should wear layers with a lightweight waterproof outer layer and waterproof boots if possible. If they wear sneakers, they should bring one or two pairs of dry socks. Workers should also bring a water bottle.
The NSHA will provide rubber gloves, trash bags, and hand-held trash grabbers to volunteers who sign up prior to the event. Park at the Polish American Club parking Lot at 76 Mill St.
See the NSHA Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/northsmithfieldheritage
Contact the NSHA at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 401-651-6316 for further information.
The White House says the flying of a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon over the U.S. is unacceptable. The Press secretary today said China's irresponsible actions were visible for Americans and the world to see. The U.S. military is currently recovering debris from the balloon that was shot down off the coast of South Carolina this weekend. 
