Leeds CPA small grant application 2016-f.pdf 1
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION
COMBINED SMALL GRANT
ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION FORM
SMALL GRANTS COMBINED ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
1. Please familiarize yourself with the relevant portions of the CPC Plan 2012-
2014 (at a minimum: eligibility (Appendix A, Allowable Use Table), general
evaluation Criteria (Overview - Page 6), and applicable program criteria
(Historic Preservation – Page 14, Community Housing, Page 22, Open
Space, Page 24, Recreation, Page 31)
2. Please consult with the CPC staff prior to submitting any application
materials. Coordinating early will help ensure that your proposal is eligible
for CPA funds, and increase the chances of a favorable decision. CPC staff
can be reached at 413-587-1263.
3. Complete the Combined Eligibility and Application Form.
4. We would prefer that you keep to the space provided. But if you need
additional space, please continue on separate pieces of paper; number all
the pages submitted.
5. Attach any letters of support, funding commitments or landowner
permission
6. Attach any of the following if relevant:
a. photographs, renderings or design plans of the site, building, structure or other
subject for which the application is made
b. USGS topographical map, assessors map, or other map as appropriate, showing
location of the project
c. Information regarding Natural resource limitations (wetlands, flood plain) or
zoning (district, dimensional and use regulations as applies to the land)
d. Mass. Historic Commission Historic inventory sheet
e. Historic structure report or existing condition reports
f. Names and addresses of project contractors, and consultants
g. Evidence that appropriate professional standards will be followed if construction,
restoration or rehabilitation is proposed.
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Project Title: Signage for Leeds Village Historical Self-Guided Walking Tour
Project location, including address and parcel number: Leeds Village, multiple sites
Project Sponsor/Organization: Leeds Civic Association, Mill River Greenway Initiative
Leeds Committee
Contact Name: Heidi Stevens, Jason Johnson
Property Owner, if applicable: City of Northampton, Massachusetts
Daytime phone #: 585-9923, 413-320-3386 Fax #:
E-mail address: heidi@heidistevens.com cookjohnson@comcast.net
For the following, please refer to the Small Grant Eligibility Chart:
http://northamptonma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4185
CPA Program Area (check those that apply):
Open Space x Historic Preservation
Community Housing x Recreation
Project Purpose (check those that apply) :
x Preservation
Rehabilitation/Restoration
Applicant’s Signature: ____________________________
Date Submitted: 2/8/16
For CPC Use Eligible: _____ Not Eligible: _____ Date: __________ Reviewer: ____________________
Appropriate for Small Grant Process_____
Referred to Traditional Funding Round______
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Total Project Budget (not to exceed $6,000.00): $4,872.00
CPA Funding Request (not to exceed $3,000.00): $2,860.00
Funding from other sources:
Mill River Greenway Initiative Leeds Committee-$100.00
Leeds Civic Association-$100.00
Public Health and Wayfinding grant administered by Office of Planning and
Sustainability-$132.00.
List any in-kind donations of labor or materials:
In-kind graphic design by Heidi Stevens and Justin O’Connor
Labor/Materials, Leeds Civic Association, Leeds Mill River Greenway Initiative
Production/Hardware for (4) 8x10 signs on the rail trail
CPA Request as % of Total Budget: 60%
Budget Summary: Please specify how CPA funds will be spent. Itemize all projected
expenditures. If budget is based on a quote, please attach it. List any additional
funding sources or donations of in-kind service. These funds must be secured at the
time of application, as evidenced by a signed commitment letter referencing the content
of the application, and including any restriction on the use of funds.
Sign Production and Delivery
Signage and Mounting Posts for (3) 24x36 signs -$2,860.00
Total Costs=$2,860.00(CPA funds)
Additional/Matching funding
Installation Materials for the (3) 24x36 signs-(3)36’’ Sonotubes, 3 bags concrete/post,
threaded lag bolts + Auger Rental= $167.95
Full size proof of Site A sign for proposal review=$25.03
Total of $192.98 (Matching funds, LCA/Leeds MRGI)=$100.00/each =$200.00
Production/Hardware for (4) 8x10 signs on the rail trail-$132.00. (Public Health and
Wayfinding grant administered by Office of Planning and Sustainability)
Total Additional/Matching Funding=$332.00
In-kind services
In-kind graphic design by Heidi Stevens and Justin O’Connor- OnDesign-$1,500.00
In-kind labor, 2 laborers (LCA and MRGI) to dig holes and mix concrete under the
direction of Northampton DPW-4 volunteer hours per site at $15/hour=$60.00x3
sites=$180.00
Total In-Kind services=$1680.00
Total contribution of In-kind services and additional/matching funding=$2012.00
Signage and Mounting Posts for (3) 24x36 signs -$2,860.00
Total Cost of Project=$4,872.00
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1) Please provide a brief description of the project.
This project is to provide historical interpretative signage to compliment the Mill
River Greenway Initiative’s Self-Guided walking tour through the village of Leeds,
Massachusetts. Historical signage will depict the village during its manufacturing heyday
when it was the center of economic and industrial vitality in Northampton. Silk thread,
woolen broadcloth, and vegetable ivory buttons were produced by mills, using
waterpower from the Mill River. These industries will be depicted on the signage, as
well as the Leeds train station and trolley system that brought workers to the village.
Signage will be located in the areas where the photos were taken before and after the
1874 flood event. Interpretative historical text will accompany the photographs that
portray the industrial success of the mills, the impact of the flood and the rebuilt village
that rose to reclaim its economic prominence.
2) What Community Preservation criteria – both general and program-area specific –
does this project meet? Please refer to the Overview CPA Plan Section, Page 6), and
applicable program criteria. (Historic Preservation – Page 14, Community Housing,
Page 22, Open Space, Page 24, Recreation, Page 31)
This project meets Community Preservation criteria because it makes the history and
culture of the village accessible and engaging. While much has changed, the character
of the village remains with the mill buildings and remaining stonework, with the river
running through its center. These historical elements are recognizable when looking at
pictures from 150 years ago. This walking tour preserves the memory of those times,
educating the community about what was here, and why the dams and stone walls
were so important to the economic development of Northampton. The signage will
provide a sense of place for both residents and visitors. The depiction of the flood
scenes conveys the enormity of the disaster and the impact it had on the residents and
mill workers.
Specifically, we feel this project meets all the Historical project evaluation criteria for
the following reasons: 1. Improves the properties and landscape and defines them in an
historical context, 2. Includes a focus on the historical function of the village’s industrial
factories, 3. Supports eligibility for register listing and has the support of the Historic
Commission, 4. Provides assurance to maintain the resource over time because it is
located on city property.
We also feel that this project specifically supports the recreational and open-space
criteria by accomplishing the following: 1. Supports passive and active recreational
activities by providing a destination walking tour that can be completed once reaching
the site and is connected to the network of bike paths, 2. Serves a potentially unlimited
number of residents and visitors, 3. Is accessible to all ages and abilities, 4. Enhances
the appreciation of the Mill River, 5. Contributes to the health of the citizens by
encouraging walking and learning about Leeds history, 6. Benefits conservation and
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recreation initiatives by connecting people to open space recreational areas such as the
bike path, Look Park, and Roberts Hill Conservation Area, 7. Maximizes the utility of City
owned land since it is located on the bike path, flood memorial, and conservation land,
8. Promotes a creative use of former railway, waterway, and connecting corridors for
non-motorized exercise opportunities, 9. Expands the recreational opportunities for local
and regional school children, residents of Leeds Village housing, and the VA hospital by
providing a free, accessible, and independent activity to explore local history.
3) What community need(s) does this project serve? If the project serves multiple
needs and populations, please describe them. If the project serves a population that is
currently underserved, please describe.
Educational
This project serves the community by encouraging an emersion into a historical
landscape that could be easily overlooked. The signage as part of the walking tour will
draw people to Leeds specifically for the educational experience. It is a phenomenal
opportunity for the public schools, especially for Leeds Elementary where the school
children can walk from school along the tour route.
Physical Exercise
This project encourages physical exercise, as it covers over half a mile, and the intimate
nature of the displays requires that the tour be taken on foot. It is within walking
distance to Look Park, Roberts Hill Conservation Area and is proximate to the rail trail
and bike/pedestrian path. It can be a destination experience and can be incorporated
into longer excursions.
Affordable and Accessible
This walking tour is free, and is short enough to be completed within an hour. All
locations along the route are accessible by wheelchair. The signs will be at a 45-degree
angle and at a height of 3 feet, making them easy to view by children and those in
wheelchairs.
4) What specific guarantees will assure the long-term preservation of the project?
Because all of the signs are on city-owned property the project will be a permanent
feature within the village of Leeds. Fossil panels are graffiti-proof and guaranteed for 10
years against fading and weather deterioration. The Leeds Civic Association is
committed to monitoring the condition of the signage and sites to maximize their long-
term preservation, and will work with the city to maintain their appearance, (see
enclosed letter).
5) What community support does the project have? Explain the nature and level of the
support.
This project is widely supported by the community. The Leeds-Mill River Greenway
Initiative (MRGI) has already led three volunteer-led walking tours, which have all been
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filled to capacity. The Leeds Civic Association (LCA) collaborated with the MRGI to
create the self-guided brochure. Volunteers of the LCA are providing professional design
work as well as labor and material for installation (see budget summary). The
Northampton Department of Planning and Sustainability is supporting the project by
funding signage for sites along the rail trail/bike path. The Northampton Historical
Commission has provided a letter of support for the project.
6) How will the success of this project be measured?
The success of the project will be measured in the following ways:
The number of participants in the guided walking tours and the number of brochures
used by self-guided participants will be documented. The creation and development of
other Mill River Greenway projects will be inspired by this project. The supporting
organizations will be advertising this project through their websites so local residents
and visitors to the city may participate and comment on their experience. Success will
be measured by support and funding for adding interpretative signage for the rest of
the historical walking tour sites in Leeds.
7) Is ongoing maintenance and upkeep required? If yes, please explain how this will
be accomplished.
Fossil panels are graffiti proof, and guaranteed for 10 years against fading and weather
deterioration. The hardware is durable and tamperproof. The signs and the surrounding
areas will be maintained and cleaned by volunteers from the Leeds Civic Association
and Leeds Mill River Greenway Initiative. This work will be coordinated by the
Chair/President of these organizations, who meet regularly. Maintenance will be
scheduled for spring and fall annually, and more often if needed.
8) Explain the various steps of the project and when they will be completed
Design work on the (4) 8x10 signs for the rail trail is complete, and the order for
manufacture is expected to go out at the end of February, 2016.
Final versions of the three larger signs (A,B,C) will be completed by May 1, 2016.
The design team is working with Forbes Library staff and Historic Northampton to locate
the best quality photos and to establish accurate photographic credit. The historical text
is being finalized by Leeds Civic Association members.
Pending approval of the proposal, application for installation permitting will begin for
signs A,B,C. Pending approval and availability of CPA funds, the production of signage
and delivery will be completed by July 1, 2016. The supporting organizations are able to
provide deposits necessary for the work order to be placed.
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Request for DPW assistance will be made following approval of the proposal. Work
orders and scheduling of In-kind labor by volunteers will be determined by DPW. The
time frame for completion of installation for signs A,B,C is August, 2016. Completion by
this date would allow them to be included in time for the guided Mill River Greenway
Initiative walking tour in the fall of 2016.
Permitting of sign locations for the additional walking tour sites will be initiated upon
acceptance of the proposal. A map of locations, photos of the sites and examples of the
signs will be provided by May 1, 2016. An itemized installation budget will be included.
Final versions of the remaining signs will be completed by June 1, 2016. The time frame
for completion of installation for the remaining signs is August, 2017.
9) Provide any additional information you think would be useful in considering your
project.
We are providing a 24x36 inch paper mock-up of one of the signs to be produced with
the support the CPA funds. We are also providing digital mock-ups of all three signs.
Major design changes are not expected; minor changes and improvements to
interpretative text and dates are currently being worked on to ensure accuracy.
Discussion regarding the location of the signage has been initiated with the Department
of Planning and Sustainability, and the locations appear favorable. Permitting for
installation will begin once the approval of the proposal is received.
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9
2/5/16
To: The Community Preservation Committee, Northampton
From: The Mill River Greenway Initiative
Re. Leeds Civic Association Application for Funds for Interpretive Signs
Dear CPC:
The Mill River Greenway Initiative (MRGI) heartily endorses the Leeds Civic
Association’s request for funds for interpretive signs along the self-guided tour through Leeds
village center. MRGI gave its full support to the Leeds brochure initiative last year, and we were
extremely pleased with their work. They now have a proven track record.
The Leeds Mill River Committee of the LCA will be the first to establish signage along
one of the Mill River Greenway paths that will ultimately stretch from Northampton through
Williamsburg. In a recent community meeting in Florence for all Mill River residents, it became
clear that signage is one of the more important elements in bringing people back to the river and
engaging them in the history of our place. We envision interpretive signs all up and down our
Mill River corridor in the future, and there is no better place to start than in Leeds.
Respectfully yours,
John Sinton, co moderator Gaby Immerman, co-Moderator
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TO: COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
FROM: LEEDS COMMITTEE OF THE MILL RIVER GREENWAY INITIATIVE
Dear Community Preservation Committee,
The Leeds Committee of the Mill River Greenway Initiative is pleased to co-present this proposal
for Historic Signage to support the self-guided walking tour in Leeds developed by the Leeds Civic
Association and Mill River Greenway Initiative (MRGI) last year. This letter is to provide a ''firm
commitment in writing'' as requested by the proposal package to establish that the (MRGI) Leeds
Committee will provide significant contributions in support of the project.
Commitment of two (2) members of the (MRGI) Leeds Committee to help dig holes, mix
concrete and set bolts for anchoring posts that will support the historical signage. This volunteer labor
will be completed to the specifications set forth by the manufacturer and supplier of the signage and posts
under the direction of Northampton DPW staff or to the DPW's specifications if they differ from that of
zthe manufacturer. This commitment is for (at a minimum) 2 persons for 2 hours per site, for a total of 12
hours of labor.
We also are committing to care and maintenance of the signs and area around them in good condition
to preserve their appearance. Our commitment to the maintenance and upkeep of the project and project
area are to a bi-annual cleaning of the signage facing. The signs and the area around the signs will be
maintained by volunteers from the Leeds Civic Association and Leeds Mill River Greenway Initiative,
who are currently stewards of these sites. This work will be coordinated by the Chair/President of these
organizations, who meet regularly. Maintenance will be scheduled for spring and fall annually, and more
often if needed.
The (MRGI) Leeds Committee is giving a firm commitment of $100.00 dollars to purchase the materials
necessary for the installation of the signage. We are excited about this project, which will visually
improve these areas of the village, make them more accessible to the community, as well as provide
residents and visitors with an immersion into Leeds rich history.
Thank you for your support,
Jason Johnson
Chairman, Mill River Greenway Initiative Leeds Committee
Mill River Greenway Initiative, Leeds Committee
PO Box 115, Leeds, MA 01053
413-320-3386
cookjohnson@comcast.net
February 2, 2016
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Itemized Budget for Leeds Walking Tour Historic Signage Proposal
Installation Supplies
Total Installation Supply Costs=$79.96+ 3.99 (MA Sales Tax 5%) =$83.95
Rental Cost for a gas powered auger for digging holes(Northampton Rental)=$80/day+$4.00
(MA Sales Tax 5%)=$84.00
Total Installation Costs- Supplies ($83.95)+ Equipment Rental($84.00)=$167.95
Supplier Product Cost per unit # per site # total Total Cost
Home Depot Sonotubes
12"x48"
$9.22 1 3 $27.66
Home Depot Quickcrete
80lb Bag
$4.10 4 12 $48.20
Home Depot Anchor Bolts
1/2"x10"
$1.16 4 16 $4.10
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F70736QUOTE
2-1-16DATE:
PAGE: 1
8 Upland Road
Leeds Civic Association
Heidi StevensTo:
Fax#:Phone#:413-585-9923
Leeds MA 01053,
94382ID #:
Leeds Historical SignageTag Name:
Rhiannon de CesareAccount Executive:
1/2" Exterior CHPL Graphic.
Panel Size: 36"w x 24"h
4 Threaded Inserts w/ Tamper Resistant Bolts.
Single Post Pedestal (12" x 12" Mounting Plate at 45 Degree).
- Black Powder Coated Aluminum.
- In-Ground Mount. (Surface Mount available).
1/2" Exterior CHPL Graphic.
Panel Size: 10"w x 8"h
4 Threaded Inserts w/ Tamper Resistant Bolts.
Single Post Pedestal (6" x 6" Mounting Plate at 45 Degree).- Black Powder Coated Aluminum.
- In-Ground Mount. (Surface Mount available).
Color Sample - 8" x 10" x 1/16" CHPL.
- Used in production for color matching and resolution.
- Includes shipping.
Alternate:
1/2" Exterior CHPL Graphic.
Panel Size: 13" x 13"
4 Threaded Inserts w/ Tamper Resistant Bolts.
Single Wood Post Plate (45 Degree). Powder Coated Aluminum.
- Mounting Plate is 12"h x 12"w
- Mounts to the top of a 4"x4" wooden post.
E12-06-T4
SPG1212
E12-006-T4
SPG66
99810
E12-012-T4
WPP1212-45
3
3
6
6
1
253.00
175.00
37.00
175.00
40.00
152.00
61.00
88.00
759.00
525.00
222.00
1,050.00
40.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
DescriptionPart Number ExtQtyEach
264.00Shipping:
$2,860.00TOTAL:
$2,596.00Subtotal:
0.000%Tax:
Deposit Due:1,716.00
2,596.00Subtotal:
FOSSIL INDUSTRIES, INC.
44 Jefryn Boulevard
Deer Park, NY 11729
800-244-9809 631-254-9200
Fax: 631-254-4172
www.FossilGraphics.com
Please sign to authorize production: __________________________ ___/___/___ Print: ___________________________
All Fossil panels feature our exclusive 12-Color HD Printing.
Digital files must conform to Fossil File Prep Guidelines (FossilGraphics.com)
Electronic layout proofs provided at no charge.
Features are indicated in part numbers:
P - Custom Shape; T - Threaded Inserts; D - Double Sided; H - Holes;
MURAL - Indicates panels built to go directly beside another panel.
Shipping to zip code: 01053. Estimate based on destination being a non-
residence that has a forklift if necessary.
Shipping charges include packaging and insurance.
Quote valid 90 days. Order produced under our standard Terms and Conditions of
Sale (FossilGraphics.com/terms). For installation info or to determine best
thickness of CHPL to meet your requirements (FossilGraphics.com/guide).
60% Deposit / Balance Net 10 After DeliveryTERMS:
14
January 26, 2016
Jason Johnson
Chairman
Mill River Greenway Initiative
Leeds Committee
PO Box 115
Leeds, MA 01053
Dear Jason,
It has been a pleasure talking to you. I am pleased to quote you the following prices. All Embedded
Fiberglass panels are fabricated by Fossil Graphics. We are their distributor in New England. Our signs
using their panels have been installed in Northampton MA,
Suffield CT, Weathersfield MA, Columbia Greenway in Westfield, MA, Boston Harbor Historical Sign
Project in Boston, MA and the World Trade Center area in Lower Manhattan, New York City. We are
currently working on a project for Middlebury VT and Saratoga NY. We would be honored to add the Mill
River Greenway Initiative to the list. The following prices do not include installation. If you do choose for
us to install our price is $200.00 each.
1 panel with powder coated black pedestal slant top design is $1,200.00.
2 panels with a powder coated black round or square post with rain cap or scroll top finial is $1,500.00.
3 panels with a triangular frame powder coated black with as rain cap or scroll top finial is $2,000.00.
4 panels with a 4 sided boxed design powder coated black with a rain cap or scroll top finial is $2,400.00.
All bases will have a welded 6” square 1/2” plate with 4 holes to bolt onto the 12” Sonotube foundation
with 4 each “J” bolts or 4 each expansion concrete wedge anchors.
Please let me know if you have any questions. If you would like I can provide two design groups that have
worked a these projects in the past. If you need a design layout for your grant submittal I would be pleased
to provide. I look forward to hearing from you on your exciting project.
Our terms would be a 60% deposit to cover materials. Balance due upon delivery or installation.
Sincerely,
Ronald E. Whitaker
President
W.S. Sign Design Corp.
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January 27, 2016
Jason Johnson
Chairman
Mill River Greenway Initiative
Leeds Committee
PO Box 115
Leeds, MA 01053
Dear Jason,
It has been a pleasure talking to you. I am pleased to quote you the following prices. All Embedded
Fiberglass panels are fabricated by Fossil Graphics. We are their distributor in New England. Our signs
using their panels have been installed in Northampton MA,
Suffield CT, Weathersfield MA, Columbia Greenway in Westfield, MA, Boston Harbor Historical Sign
Project in Boston, MA and the World Trade Center area in Lower Manhattan, New York City. We are
currently working on a project for Middlebury VT and Saratoga NY. We would be honored to add the Mill
River Greenway Initiative to the list. The following prices do not include installation. If you do choose for
us to install our price is $200.00 each. Here is a different way to shou the prices with more options. Hope
thyis is better
1 panel 10” x 12” with powder coated black pedestal slant top design is $717.00. With 18” x 24” panel
price is $804.00.
2 panels 10” x 12” with a powder coated black round or square post with rain cap or scroll top finial is
$760.00. With 18” x 24” panels price is $926.00.
3 panels 10” x 12” with a triangular frame powder coated black with as rain cap or scroll top finial is
$1,229.00. With 18” x 24” panels price is $1,518.00. With 12” x 30” panels price is $1,425.00.
4 panels 10” x 12” with a 4 sided boxed frame powder coated black with a rain cap or scroll top finial is
$1,388.88. With 18” x 24” panels price is $1,518.00. With 12” x 30” panels price is $1,644.00.
All bases will have a welded 6” square 1/2” plate with 4 holes to bolt onto the 12” Sonotube foundation
with 4 each “J” bolts or 4 each expansion concrete wedge anchors.
This will give you more size options and different price options.
Please let me know if you have any questions. If you would like I can provide two design groups that have
worked a these projects in the past. If you need a design layout for your grant submittal I would be pleased
to provide. I look forward to hearing from you on your exciting project.
Our terms would be a 60% deposit to cover materials. Balance due upon delivery or installation.
Sincerely,
Ronald E. Whitaker
President
W.S. Sign Design Corp.
SIGN
A
SIGN
B
LOCATIONS -
LEEDS HISTORICAL
INTERPRETIVE SIGNAGE
SIGN A
LEEDS PROSPERITY,
DEVASTATION,
RENEWED PRODUCTIVITY
Location:
• West side of bike trail.
• North side of Mulberry Street
SIGN B
MILL RIVER FLOOD
DEVASTATES LEEDS
Location:
• At Flood Memorial
• West side of Main Street
SIGN C
CALAMITIOUS RIVER FLOOD AND
WINTER FRESHET
Location:
• East side of Main Street
• Across the street from Hotel Bridge
SIGN
C
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SIGN A
LEEDS PROSPERITY, DEVASTATION,
RENEWED PRODUCTIVITY
• West side of bike trail, north side of Mulberry St.
•Text and photos will depict the Main Street scene
before, immediatly after, and two years after the
flood when the village was rebuilt. The Corticelli
trolley with mill workers boarding and mill workers
in the spinning room will be included.
SIGN B
MILL RIVER FLOOD DEVASTATES LEEDS
• At Flood Memorial, west side of Main Street
•Text and photos will depict the Leeds Main
Street area immediately after the flood,
SIGN C
CALAMITIOUS RIVER FLOOD AND WINTER FRESHET
• East side of Main Street at the site where the
Mill River Button Factory once stood. Hotel Bridge
is directly across the street.
• Text and photos will depict the thriving button
factory and workers, flood devastation, and Hotel
Bridge and Leeds Hotel in 1885.
SIGN
A
SIGN
B
SIGN
C
vv
During the 19th and early 20th century the village of Leeds was the leading economic center of Northampton. Several U.S. manufacturing debuts happened in Leeds. Broadcloth, vegetable ivory buttons, Corticelli’s famous silk sewing thread, Machine Twist, were first created and manufactured in Leeds.
1 The Nonotuck Silk mill and its wooden boarding house were situated on opposite sides of the Mill River. Female mill workers had a short walk to work across the Mulberry Street Bridge. A horse drinks from a trough at the intersection of Mulberry and Main Street. Photo by Knowleton Bros., Forbes Library
2 The Mill River Flood of 1874 devastated the center of Leeds, washing away the boarding house, Mulberry Bridge, all four dams, and peoples homes. The house on the south side of Mulberry and the silk mill remained intact. Photo by Knowleton Bros., Forbes Library
3 Within two years of the Mill River Flood, Leeds mills and center were rebuilt and factories reached peak productivity. Photo courtesy of Robert P. Emrick collection, Forbes Library
4 The Corticelli Trolley stopped in front of the Corticelli Silk mill on Main Street in Leeds. The photo is believed to have been taken in 1904 and was provided to the Gazette by the Clarence Beliveau family.
5 Silk mill workers pose in the Nonotuck Mill on Main Street. Photo courtesy of the Ray LaBarge Collection, Leeds Civic Association
LEEDS PROSPERITY, DEVASTATION, RENEWED PRODUCTIVITY
3
1 2
4 5
MillRiverGreenway.org
LEEDSCIVICASSOCIATION
LeedsCivic.org
O n the morning of May 16, 1874 the Williamsburg Dam gave way unleashing 600 million gallons of water which devastated the village of Leeds. It was the largest disaster in the country at the time. The Mill River Flood took the lives of fifty one Leeds residents. Most were workers at the Button Factory on Main Street.
1 Devastation in the enter of Leeds. The Nonotuck silk mill on Mulberry Street on the east side of river survived. Photo by Knowleton Bros., Leeds Civic Association
2 Western view of William Quigley’s house on Main Street. Another survivor, riding down river on the roof of his house, smashed into the second story level of the surviving wing of the Quigley house. The women rushed to the window, opened it up and dragged the man inside. All four rode out the flood in the wing and survived. Photo by Knowleton Bros., Leeds Civic Association
3 Volunteers search for bodies in the waist deep debris of lost property caused by the flood. Photo by Knowleton Bros., Leeds Civic Association
4 T he background illustration that shows the destruction Leeds was used after the flood by the Mill River Button Company on a button box label. Artist is unknown
MILL RIVER FLOOD DEVASTATES LEEDS VILLAGE
MillRiverGreenway.org LEEDS
CIVICASSOCIATIONLeedsCivic.org
3
2
4
1
Two disasterous water events occurred within four years of each other in Leeds, the Mill River Flood of 1874 and the torrential rainfall and melting snow Freshet of 1878.
1 The Mill River Button Factory was located on Main Street and produced nearly 90,000 vegetable ivory buttons per day and employed 175 people before the Flood. Half of the Flood victims worked at the button factory. Photo courtesy of the Ray LaBarge Collection, Leeds Civic Association
2 The stone arch bridge on Main Street is severly damaged in the 1874 Mill River Flood. Photo courtesy of the Knowleton Bros. Collection, Leeds Civic Association
3 The 1874 Mill River Flood was considered a national disaster. The June 6th, 1874 issue of Harper’s Weekly included a double page spread of the etching showing the ruins in Leeds.
4 The Button Factory was completely rebuilt by 1875. By 1880 it had doubled its product output.
5 The 1878 winter freshet carved a new channel in the Mill River. The roadway used by residents on the east side of the river was washed. Taxpayers petitioned the city for a bridge for Leeds. The 1880 iron Pratt through truss bridge was built by the Wrought Iron Bridge Company of Canton, Ohio. It is the oldest bridge of this type in Massachusetts. When Leeds Hotel was built in 1885 the bridge became known as Hotel Bridge. Leeds Hotel had many owners, caught fire several times, and in 1910 was brought to court for serving beer on Sundays. Teatotallers claimed seeing wavering, unsteady men coming from the Hotel and crossing the bridge. Not one witness at the trial admitted drinking beer without eating sandwiches too.
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20