Paterson

Falls

A visit to the Great Falls in 1778 left an indelible impression on Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury.

The power of the falls and the Passaic River helped attract industry which eventually made Paterson the first planned industrialized city in the United States.

Paterson was the first planned industrial center located on or near "The Great Falls." The falls provided an energy source for this city including power for the silk mills. The landmark is an important part of the Great Falls Historic District. This natural resource helped the city of Paterson become an important part of the Industrial Revolution.