Local documentarian offers perspective on Woonsocket mill fire

WOONSOCKET, R.I. (WLNE) — A fire at a mill in Woonsocket on July 29 provided a reminder of what one documentarian said is an ongoing problem.

“It’s one of countless examples, particularly in Woonsocket,” Christian de Rezendes said. “But throughout the Blackstone Valley of beautiful mill buildings of a particular era just gone.”

de Rezendes, a filmmaker and Woonsocket native, had been studying the mills in the area for over a decade for his film series “Slatersville” and was well acquainted with the building on Privilege Street.

“I would drive by that mill building very often,” de Rezendes said. “Then one morning you wake up and you’re like, ‘Oh look, we’re on the news’ and it’s just incredibly sad.”

He said the sorrow stems from knowing many old mills can be an important part of the community.

“These buildings are precious to our history,” de Rezendes said. “And we need to do our best to find ways to repurpose them, either for commercial or residential.”

A lack of upkeep can create a fire hazard, resulting in instances such as the blaze in Woonsocket.

“Depending on the mill, it will have chemicals that were used back in the day when it was ok to use certain things that aren’t ok now,” de Rezendes said. “If it’s a really old mill it will have oil-soaked floors, and all you need is to just light a match and then it goes up.”

de Rezendes said the Woonsocket fire is another reminder that action must be taken.

“I think that more can always be done,” he said. “Because we’re not moving fast enough to get these buildings into shape.”