From Old Slater Mill to Centreville Bank Stadium, here are 5 things to know about Pawtucket

Pawtucket, Rhode Island, founded in 1671, is celebrated as the "Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. " With a current population of about 75,604, it experienced substantial growth during the industrial era, peaking at 81,846 residents in 1940. The city boasts significant historical sites, including the Old Slater Mill, which was the first to employ water-powered cotton spinning technology in America. Additionally, the newly inaugurated Centreville Bank Stadium, which opened in 2025, serves as the home for the Rhode Island FC soccer team. The opening of the Pawtucket/Central Falls MBTA commuter rail station in 2023 has led to a construction boom, adding hundreds of new apartments to the area.

In a significant economic shift, Hasbro announced in September 2025 that it would relocate its headquarters from Pawtucket to Boston. A noteworthy event in Pawtucket's history includes a Beach Boys concert in 1977 that drew approximately 40,000 attendees, setting a record for the largest concert gathering in the state. The city's rich history and evolving landscape make it a focal point for both residents and visitors.