Architecture ~ Atlantic Mills, Providence

Atlantic Mills
100 Manton Ave.
Providence, Rhode Island
originally published 3/3/2010

updated 12/2024

2024

A lot has happened at Atlantic Mills since I first went to Olneyville to see what those domes were. This month, the tenants formed the first Commercial Tenants Union in Rhode Island to protect themselves and perserve the building.

This comes as the mill is once again for sale. An attempt to purchase by the City couldn't reach an agreement with with the current owners. Now the tenants are concerned about the mill's future under new ownership.

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2016

I went back to the Mills in 2016, and thought myself daring for climbing the stairs of one of the towers. Like urban exploration, except this building isn't at all abandoned. Little did I know at the time. I was aware of some businesses on the ground floor, including the immense flea market, but thought the upper floors were largely unused. They've actually been artists' studios and maker spaces for decades.

Anyway, I climbed the tower to take a photo down the curved stairs, like I'd seen and admired on Flickr. and Art in Ruins.
 

It was not a good photo.

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2010
I'd seen the domes from the highway (Rte 6) for a year as I drive back and forth to work. Big, rounded, striped. One missing its cupola. Was it a church of some kind?

No, it's Atlantic Mills.

Once a Worsted mill, built between 1863 and 1872 (according to the complex's Web site - now defunct), and the largest employer in Providence, Atlantic Mills operated until 1953. It's been on and off the Most Endangered Properties Lists for years (Providence Preservation Society).

The building is beautiful, although it's in some disrepair. I didn't go inside this time, although it does house some businesses and a flea market. I'm sure we'll be visiting those businesses at some point.

In the meantime, I really enjoyed the architecture of the buildings. Architecture was a major factor in our decision to move to Rhode Island, and Atlantic Mills is a prime example. I hope they're able to maintain it so it's around for a long time to come.