Blackstone Canal Builders

About

Rockland Trust Plaza aka Pickett Plaza – Worcester, MA

2023

 

The monument recognizes the builders of the Blackstone Canal that connected Worcester, Massachusetts to Providence, Rhode Island in the mid-19th century, providing Worcester with access to the sea and encouraging its industrial growth. The builders were Irish immigrants led by engineer Benjamin Wright and contractor Tobias Boland. The pair is immortalized conducting their work. Robert researched the clothing and surveying tools of the period to create concept sketches for the committee. The monument is situated in the historic Canal District.