We are encouraging everyone to come hear expert historian Ned Connors present his research on the Potter & Johnston Machine Company, whose complex is now occupied by Hasbro, Inc. A Scottish immigrant and engineering prodigy named James C. Potter established and supervised the design of Pawtucket’s largest machine tool factory, shortly after what he had planned to be his early retirement in 1897. The factory was a remarkable feat of engineering. Potter combined his expert knowledge of machine design with the best building technology of the time, to operate factory that surpassed all the standards of the industry. Potter established a world-wide market and he was well-respected as an industrial genius.

Ned’s talk will be given in the Potter Casino in Slater Park. The event is free and open to the public, but we ask that you RSVP, either on this event, or by emailing us at contact@heritagepawtucket.org.

Ned Connors is one of Rhode Island’s leading historians and preservation consultants. His thorough research and entertaining presentation style have enhanced our knowledge and understanding of Rhode Island’s historic places and earned him several awards. Ned’srecent Pawtucket projects include the Prospect Heights Housing Project, the Jenckes Spinning Co. Historic District, and the Moore Fabric Company Mill.