The 24 communities of the Blackstone River Valley are opening their doors to their best cultural and historical attractions, all on Columbus Day Weekend, October 6-8, during the Third Annual Footsteps in History Preserve America Program. Last year, these events attracted over 15,000 visitors to the Blackstone River Valley.


Many of the 100 sites featured during the Footsteps in History program are not open to the public on a regular basis. The program Web site, www.FootstepsInHistory.com, has a full list of events.


"The annual Footsteps in History program is the best opportunity for us to encourage public support and participation for preserving our valley's historic, cultural and natural assets," said Robert Billington, President of the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council. "What a wonderful weekend for people to enjoy historic home tours, museums, nature walks, fall foliage, crafts, apple picking, shopping and more. There's something for everyone."


This year, visitors can enter to win a free gas giveaway valued at $500 by filling out the entry on the back of the Footsteps in History rack card.


The 46-mile Blackstone River Valley between Worcester, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island, supports a treasure trove of rare and unique homes, early industrial manufacturing operations, places of worship, timeless farms, a carousel, candy shop and a folk theater.


More than 100 tours, open houses and events are currently being listed. An upcoming schedule of programs may be found at www.footstepsinhistory.com