Historic Atlantic Delaine Mills Complex Sold After Decades

News Summary

The Atlantic Delaine Mills complex in Olneyville has been sold after more than 70 years of ownership. The sale marks a significant change for the historic site, known for its architectural significance and legacy in the textile industry. The complex, which has evolved over the years, now faces an uncertain future regarding its tenants and union relationships under new ownership. The architectural integrity of the mill, built between 1870 and 1879, remains a vital part of Providence’s industrial heritage.

Olneyville – The Atlantic Delaine Mills complex, a historically significant industrial site, has been sold after more than 70 years of ownership. Bob Berle of NAI Advisors has confirmed the sale but did not disclose the final sale price of the complex. The mill, which spans over 350,000 square feet, is recognized for its architectural significance, boasting unique features such as two domed towers and a granite balustrade.

The mill was constructed between 1870 and 1879 and, by the late 1880s, had established itself as the largest producer of worsted and cotton-wrap fabric in Providence. At its peak, the Atlantic Delaine Mills employed over 2,000 workers, showcasing its importance to the local economy and community. Notably, the original factory was founded in 1851 by General C.T. James, who aimed to manufacture delaine fabric but faced bankruptcy in 1873. The enterprise was subsequently revived and expanded into khaki manufacturing, securing government contracts during wartime which significantly contributed to its success.

Since the 1950s, the complex has been owned by Howard and Eleanor Brynes LLC. Throughout the years, the Atlantic Delaine Mills has evolved, and currently, tenants within the building have organized and established a union. The status of the relationship between the union and the new ownership, particularly concerning outstanding issues, remains unclear as the transition unfolds.

The Atlantic Delaine Mills complex consists of multiple buildings constructed in the late 19th century, including both four-story and three-story brick mills. One of its notable characteristics is its power source—the Woonasquatucket River—which powered the complex and has at least three small bridge crossings within the property. The site also houses a gasometer and storehouse built in 1852, originally used for gas production by the Providence Gas Company.

The sale marks a significant change for a property that has been integral to the Olneyville community’s industrial heritage. For nearly fifty years, the complex was operated by the A.D. Julliard Company, which acquired it in 1904 and continued operations until it eventually ceased business in the early 1950s.

The architectural and historical significance of the Atlantic Delaine Mills complex cannot be overstated. Its impressive design, featuring a three-and-one-half-story brick structure, signifies a period of industrial growth and innovation in Providence. The site has played a critical role in the development of the local textile industry, transforming from a fabric manufacturer into an essential contributor to wartime supplies.

As the transition to new ownership takes place, the future of the Atlantic Delaine Mills complex remains to be seen. The impact of this sale on the existing tenants, especially those represented by the newly formed union, will be an important factor to watch in the coming months as negotiations and discussions unfold.

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Additional Resources

• Weather.com: Providence RI 10-Day Forecast
• Wikipedia: Industrialization in the United States
• Providence Journal: Coastal Flooding Advisory
• Google Search: Olneyville RI
• Weather.com: Current Weather in Providence RI
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Providence, Rhode Island
• GoLocalProv: Winter Weather Advisory
• Google News: Atlantic Delaine Mills