With the construction of a new mill city, a large labor force was needed to fill minimum wage positions being rapidly created. The boarding house system allowed mill agents sent out into the New England countryside to recruit a new workforce of young women with promises of paid work, available food, shelter, and the care and supervision of a boarding house keeper.

Join a ranger for the upcoming Lowell Walks, a guided walking tour. Tours are about 90 minutes, are free, and include a moderate amount of walking. No reservations are necessary, and tours are conducted rain or shine.

All tours will meet the ranger at the park Visitor Center (246 Market Street). Lowell National Historical Park visitors may park at the Hamilton Canal Innovation District parking garage at 350 Dutton St., Lowell. Parking in this garage (only) is available to National Park visitors at no cost provided they obtain a valid parking voucher at either the Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center at 246 Market Street, or at the Boott Cotton Mills Museum at 115 John Street.