December 14, 2005
For Immediate Release

Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce Release a New Book About the Blackstone River Valley: Honor the Past... Celebrate the Future...: A Historical Overview of the Blackstone River Valley, Massachusetts

Honor the Past...Celebrate the Future: A Historical Overview of the Blackstone River Valley

Blackstone Valley, MA. Valley Communications and the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce the release of the book, Honor the Past... Celebrate the Future...: A Historical Overview of the Blackstone River Valley, Massachusetts. The book tells the story of how each Blackstone Valley town evolved, from the incorporation of "Old Mother Mendon" in 1667 to the town of Millville's celebration of its emancipation from Blackstone on May 1, 1916. Interwoven throughout the narrative are interesting historical addresses by some of our leading citizens from years past, including Asa H. Waters of Millbury, Rep. Frank Goulding of Grafton and many others. The Industrial Revolution is covered by recounting the enormous contribution of the Valley's leading manufacturers. Other topics include stories on the infamous Uxbridge Inn, Lake Nipmuc Park, immigration, and the fascinating history of the Blackstone Valley Baseball league. The book concludes by reviewing the environmental damage wrought by the mill owners' century-old habit of dumping industrial waste into the river and the concerted efforts undertaken by community leaders to restore the river and transform the area into a viable tourist destination.

Included throughout the book is truly elegant, full color photography from local photographers as well as historic images from days gone by. A separate section tells the story of well-known businesses and families from yesterday and today.

"The book will prove to be a fascinating read for newcomers and a keepsake for long-term residents," says Jeff Ritter, Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. Individuals who pre-purchased books should contact the businesses from whom they purchased the book to schedule pick-up.

If you are interested in purchasing a book for $29.95 or have any questions, please contact the Chamber at 508-234-9090 or go to www.blackstonechamber.com to order online.

# # #

About the Chamber

The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce serves the Blackstone River Valley's eleven member towns in Massachusetts: Blackstone, Douglas, Grafton, Hopedale, Mendon, Millbury, Millville, Northbridge, Sutton, Upton, and Uxbridge. The mission of the chamber is to promote the economic vitality of the Blackstone Valley, meet the needs of the Chamber's business members, while providing leadership on issues which impact the economy and quality of life in the Valley.