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The Mill at Cannelton Originally, the mill owners intended to create a major manufacturing industry in Cannelton by importing the majority of their workers -along with their entire families - from New England. The proprietors hoped to attract some of those New Englanders who were leaving - or were being pushed out of - eastern mills due to the influx of foreign workers. They evidently felt certain that while some workers from the surrounding community in Canneleton could be hired, the numbers would not be nearly great enough to fill their needs. They reasoned that by bringing in eastern workers, the Mill would be able to begin operations with an experienced workforce. The mill owners were also concerned with the moral character of the workers they sought. In a letter from his home in Providence, Rhode Island, C.T. James outlined to Hamilton Smith his view of an acceptable labor force: My mind was made up to send out families of various descriptions; some of which would be Scotch, some English, and some, though very few, Irish; but to send none what ever, which should not come highly recommended, with the very best of references. All the important departments will be filled with native New Englanders. From this letter , it's clear that a "desirable immigrant laborer", at least for the textile industry, could be American-born or British (including only "a few Irish"). Preferably, these workers would bring their family and neighbors to Indiana to join them working at the mills. Like the twentieth century steel industry communities of Gary and East Chicago, nineteenth century mill owners at Cannelton were trying to construct an entire town to support their workforce rather than simply creating an industrial complex. From the outset of their operations, there were plans for rental houses that would accommodate up to four families. In addition, the company was willing to sell lots on which individual families might build. The mill proprietors also intended to provide for their workers' spiritual and intellectual well-being, offering lots for churches and a large school.
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