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traces the history of Mechanics Hall and Worcester back to the industrial revolution. Built by the mechanics association for classes, public debates, lectures, and entertainment, the hall opened in 1857 as showcase of innovative building techniques and mechanical systems. It remained the center of Worcester's cultural life into the mid-20th century. (National Park Service, Teaching with Historic Places)
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The rapid growth of the textile mills of New England created a need for more sophisticated tools and metal components. This need was met by an increasing number of metal working shops in the northern (Worcester, Massachusetts) end of the Blackstone River Valley. |
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Visual evidence |
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