Greenfield in Franklin County, Massachusetts — The American Northeast (New England)
River Works Park
meet Brookie!
— Town of Greenfield, Massachusetts —
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, August 5, 2023
1. River Works Park Marker
Brookie was created by John Sendelbach of nearby Shelburne Falls. It celebrates the industrial roots of Greenfield , the location of the first cutlery factory in the United States to use the American factory system. The John Russell Cutlery Co. Green River Works, which opened in 1836, was located just upstream at Meridian Street near where the Arbors Assisted Living residential community is now.
Brookie was installed October 2013 on the site of the former Food and Fuel gas station and convenience store which was open from 1936 to 1990.
The presence of brook trout means a healthy river and Brookie represents the renewed health of the Green River and this site.
Brookie's shell is constructed of stainless steel cutlery, flatware, and tableware collected from residents of Greenfield and Franklin County, supported by an inner, welded stainless steel framework which echoes fish bones.
Erected by Town of Greenfield, Massachusetts.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Arts, Letters, Music • Environment • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical month for this entry is October 2013.
Location. 42° 34.713′ N, 72° 35.913′
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. A different marker also named River Works Park (here, next to this marker); a different marker also named River Works Park (a few steps from this marker); J. Russell Cutlery & Gtd (about 700 feet away, measured in a direct line); Masonic Hall (approx. 0.6 miles away); U.S. Post Office (approx. 0.6 miles away); Greenfield's 3rd Town Hall (approx. 0.6 miles away); Greenfield Civil War Monument (approx. 0.6 miles away); Leavitt-Hovey House 1797 (approx. 0.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Greenfield.
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, August 5, 2023
2. River Works Park Marker with Brookie on display
Credits. This page was last revised on August 13, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 13, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 67 times since then and 11 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 13, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
