Belknap Mill Museum

The Karagianis Gallery offers a comprehensive exploration of the Belknap Mill’s rich history, chronicling its transformation over 200 years. As the oldest unaltered textile mill in the United States, the gallery presents a detailed narrative of its founding in 1823, its role in New England’s Industrial Revolution, and its significance in shaping Laconia’s manufacturing identity. Through exhibits and demonstrations, visitors can witness how machines revolutionized the knitting industry, allowing for faster, more efficient production of socks, stockings, and other garments.

The Knitting Museum offers a fascinating look into the history and technology of knitting and hosiery production, particularly in the context of Laconia’s industrial past. The museum features a collection of vintage knitting machines, some dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, which were pivotal in the mass production of hosiery and other knit goods. Visitors can discover exhibits that highlight the technological advancements in textile production, the lives of mill workers, and the history of hosiery manufacturing at the Belknap Mill.

The Powerhouse Museum provides a detailed exploration of the 1918 hydroelectric power plant addition to the Belknap Mill. It offers insights into its transformation from traditional water power to the more advanced hydroelectric technology that marked a new era in industrial energy production. Visitors can trace the evolution of power generation at the mill. The engaging exhibits showcase original turbines, generators, and other equipment from the period, offering a glimpse into the mechanics behind hydroelectric power generation.

The Riverside Gallery is a vibrant and ever-changing space that features rotating exhibits showcasing the work of local and regional artists. Situated in a picturesque location that overlooks the Winnipesaukee River, the gallery provides a unique and inspiring setting for artists to display their creations. The gallery offers a platform for emerging and established artists to present their paintings, photography, sculpture, mixed media, and other forms of visual art.

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The Fourth Floor is home to two exhibits. Made in Laconia, explores the city’s rich manufacturing heritage and the companies that established Laconia as a renowned hub for industrial knitting. Threads of Innovation, sponsored by Franklin Savings Bank, highlights the Mill's pioneering role in early industrial efficiency. Central to the exhibit is the circa 1890s freight elevator, a technological marvel that facilitated seamless material movement across floors.

Rod & Gail Dyer Powerhouse Patio
The Patio serves as a vibrant community gathering space and a tribute to the lasting contributions of one man and his family. The Patio seamlessly links the mill to Rotary Park, providing a welcoming spot for visitors to enjoy Belknap Mill programming from the lawn, enhancing the outdoor experience.

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