A model apartment at the renovated Jagger Mill. Photo: Tiffani Bourque
By Tiffani Bourque
A recent open house gave the public its first look at renovations that are breathing new life into the historic Jagger Mill in Springvale.
The 1920 mill, once a cornerstone of the community’s thriving textile industry, is being transformed into 86 market-rate apartments by Chinburg Properties of Newmarket, NH. While the building will offer contemporary amenities and luxury finishes, the developer has taken care to preserve the character and history that made the mill a local landmark for generations.
“Our goal has always been to bring these historic buildings back to life while honoring their history,” property manager Jen Morrow said during the June 27 open house. “We want to become part of the community and preserve the things that people have always loved about these buildings.”
Many original features of the 70,000-square-foot mill – which housed Goodall Worsted until the 1950s, when Jagger purchased it for its yarn spinning operation – have been preserved. Visitors are greeted by displays of historic mill artifacts, including original yarn and machinery that celebrate the building’s past. Hardwood floors have been carefully refinished throughout many of the upper-level apartments, allowing residents to experience a tangible connection to the mill’s history.
“The original wood floors are absolutely beautiful,” Morrow said. “People love knowing they’re walking on floors that have been part of this building for generations.”
One of the property’s most striking features is its oversized windows, which flood each apartment with natural light. Depending on the location within the building, residents enjoy views overlooking the Mousam River dam, wooded hillsides, or the surrounding natural landscape.
“I’ve managed several properties, but these windows are unlike anything I’ve ever seen,” Morrow said. “The views really make you appreciate everything this community has to offer.”
For Joe Gahagan of Rich Exterior Solutions, the project carried a special meaning. Gahagan specializes in installing custom windows, but Jagger Mill was more than just another job. Gahagan worked at Jagger Mill as a mechanic from 1990-1996.
“It was really special to come back after all these years,’ he said. “To help restore a building where I once worked made this project unlike the others.”
While preserving history was a priority, Chinburg also focused on creating apartments equipped with modern comforts. Each unit will feature stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, ceiling fans, energy-efficient mini-split heating and cooling systems, and contemporary finishes.
Rents for the units, which are expected to be available this fall, will include heat, hot water, air conditioning, water, sewer, trash removal, snow plowing, landscaping, and parking. A mobile app will enable residents to submit maintenance requests at any time.
Morrow said developers also hope to create a sense of community among residents. Common spaces will include a club room with a fireplace, workspaces for remote employees, and a community kitchen that residents can reserve free of charge. Outside, the property will feature landscaped gathering areas with fire pits and seating. Morrow also plans to organize regular resident events such as coffee hours, movie nights, game nights, and cookouts.
“We want people to get out of their apartments, meet their neighbors, and build friendships,” she said. “When you come home, we want it to feel like you’re coming home to a community.”
Morrow said that working in Springvale has changed her perspective on the community.
“I’ve really fallen in love with this area,” she said. “The natural beauty, the trails, the history— it’s been exciting to become part of this community.”
David Jagger, who sold the building to Chinburg Properties, was not able to attend the open house. Yet, he continues to be impressed by what he sees taking shape – new windows, the loft area, ample parking and the common area in place of a loading dock. “I’m very pleased,” he said. “I have only praise from what I’ve seen and heard.”
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