Lowell in Middlesex County, Massachusetts — The American Northeast (New England)

The Worker

Photographed By Dawn Bowen, July 8, 2007

1. The Worker Marker

Inscription. In 1821 Hugh Commisky led a band of laborers on a trek from Charlestown to Lowell. With muscle and sweat they dredged canals in the soil of rugged farmland. As others joined in their toil a complex waterpower system evolved, creating a new era of textile production. When one generation had endured and the clamor of manufacturing increased, immigrants came by the thousands seeking labor and a better life. This fountain celebrated workers and their contributions to industrial and human heritage.

Erected by Lowell Heritage State Park and Lowell National Historical Park.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Labor Unions • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical year for this entry is 1821.

Location. 42° 38.692′ N, 71° 18.773′ W. Marker is in Lowell, Massachusetts, in Middlesex County. Marker is on Kirk Street near French Street, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Lowell MA 01852, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 5 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. W.A. Mack Building (a few steps from this marker); Locomotives in Lowell (within shouting distance of this marker); Lowell Gas Light Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Victorian Garden (within

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shouting distance of this marker); J.C. Ayer & Company Laboratory (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Lowell.

Marker, sculpture, and fountain on Kirk Street image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Dawn Bowen, July 8, 2007

2. Marker, sculpture, and fountain on Kirk Street

“The Worker” by Elliot Schwartz (1851– ) Bronze figure of canal builder moving huge blocks of granite by using an iron pole as a lever is 5" 6' high. The sculpture was sponsored by the Department of Environmental Management and the Lowell Heritage State Park.

Close-Up of The Worker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Dawn Bowen, July 8, 2007

3. Close-Up of The Worker

Credits. This page was last revised on November 22, 2019. It was originally submitted on July 11, 2007, by Dawn Bowen of Fredericksburg, Virginia. This page has been viewed 1,507 times since then and 9 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on July 11, 2007, by Dawn Bowen of Fredericksburg, Virginia. • J. J. Prats was the editor who published this page.