Middlesex Canal Museum
71 Faulkner Street
North Billerica MA
Date/time visited: Sunday, March 16th at 1:30pm
Bathrooms: Yes
Parking: Yes, free parking located across the street
Cost: Free
Hours: 12:00-4:00, Saturday & Sunday only
Take a step back in time and explore history at the Middlesex Canal Museum in North Billerica. This free museum is open from 12:00 to 4:00 on weekends and is such a great educational experience for both adults and kids.
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At the museum, you’ll learn about the history of the Middlesex Canal, which connected the Merrimack River in Lowell to the Charles River in Charlestown. The 27-mile long canal, which took over ten years to build (1793-1803) and was dug by hand, was one of the first of its kind in the United States and was a model for the Erie Canal. The Middlesex Canal played a major role in the Industrial Revolution and helped build the world we live in today, and it helped make the incredible growth of Lowell possible as well. It carried many supplies like cotton and other material to the mills, and then carried the finished products to Boston.
Eventually, the canal was replaced by the development of railroads, but its impact on our country’s growth will not be forgotten. It was so interesting to learn so much about the history of the canal. I believe it’s important to teach our children important history such as this not only so they can understand how things were built and how they work, but so they can also learn appreciation for the hard work of those who came before us.
There are tons of tools and artifacts from the construction of the canal as well as maps, photos, and displays that allow you to learn about the canal in great detail.
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There is a canal play area with legos, blocks, and Lincoln logs which is great for younger kids. There is also a watered model lock which is a cool hands on experience for older kids. The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re happy to demonstrate and educate.
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This historical gem is a must-visit for anybody interested in local history and is both educational and enjoyable. Located just next to the museum is the New England Baseball Museum where you can explore many displays and memorabilia. Across the street, you can visit the waterfall and take in the natural beauty of the river. My family and I really enjoyed our trip to the museum and highly recommend checking it out!
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Holly O'Blenis is a mom of three who loves finding new, exciting things to do to create a fun, happy childhood for them! She is an avid reader and crafter who loves the outdoors.
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