Ludlow, Massachusetts

Ludlow, Massachusetts. . , With an area of approximately 27 square miles, Ludlow was originally renowned for its fertile land, large farms and was largely known to be an agricultural community. Most farms were between 50 and 100 acres in size with several dairy farms which operated well into the 20th century. With the advent of the industrial revolution in the late 1800's and it's close proximity to the Chicopee River, Ludlow was scrutinized for mill development. In the early 1800's The Springfield Manufacturing Company built a mill to the west of Put's Bridge on the Chicopee River. Over time, through poor management The Springfield Manufacturing Company failed and evolved, thanks in part to Charles Townsend Hubbard, into the Ludlow Manufacturing Company. The Ludlow Mills were born, much of what was built at the turn of the 20th century is still standing, including Mill #8 and the clock tower (completed in 1901) which has become a beacon for the town. Charles Hubbard had a vision for the town; he was instrumental in not only providing employment, he saw that amenities were built: a library, houses, schools, hospital and a rec building. Sports teams were also encouraged for the employees of the mills. The Ludlow Mills produced textiles including jute twine for which Ludlow was well known. By the middle of the 1900's, production slowed drastically. The advent of synthetic materials changed the course of manufacturing. The Massachusetts Turnpike opened in 1955 with an exit in the town, opening travel opportunities for work outside of the area and the demand for jute related products declined rapidly., In 2011, West Mass Area Development Corporation purchased the Ludlow Mills with the intent to revitalize and redevelop the entire property. Plans are in place for office space, senior housing, a rehabilitation facility, to name a few. The famous clock tower, present on the Ludlow town seal, will once again work and show the time for all who travel through the town. A Riverwalk is underway for the enjoyment of exercise, nature viewing and dog walking. The Ludlow Mills Rehabilitation project is the largest project of its type in New England., (lower right image caption) , Charles Townsend Hubbard