The Stafford Springs Historic District [†] is a well-preserved mid-19th century New England village that grew around water-powered textile mills, with raceways channeling river water to drive industrial production. Centered along Main Street, Furnace Avenue, and the Middle River, the district features mills, commercial buildings, and high-style residences on Highland Terrace, reflecting its industrial and community development from 1841 to 1938. By 1850, its mills produced over 1.5 million yards of cloth, employing hundreds and fostering a vibrant commercial core. The district, significant under National Register Criteria (Industry, Community Planning) and (Architecture), showcases varied streetscapes, from wide Main Street to narrow Highland Terrace, and is bounded by natural and residential areas, preserving New England’s industrial heritage.
† Adapted from, Andrew Roblee, President and Brytton Burnside, Assistant Architectural Historiam, Stafford Springs Historic District, nomination document, 2024, National Register of Historic Places, Washington, D.C., accessed May, 2025.Nearby Neighborhoods
Street Names
Furnace Avenue • Highland Terrace • Main Street • Main Street East • River Road • Silver Street • Spring Street