Friend's Mill: Four Centuries of Tidal History

Ever wondered about the role of the Bass River in early Beverly industry?  Or what that structure is that you can sometimes see at low tide? Tide mills derive their working power from the harnessing and use of water-power from tidal waters; John Friend’s Mill was operational by the middle of the 17th century and marks the beginning of industrial use of the Bass River, continued into the 20th century by the United Shoe Machinery Corporation.

The Beverly Historical Society's newest exhibit includes a working model of a tidal mill, as well as maps, documents and artwork.

Visitors captured the beauty of this massive wooden structure through photography, charcoal, oils and watercolors, providing us with a visual record of its importance.