The Mills and Ironworks of the Middle Colonies — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.6.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. History reading passage explores the vital role that mills and ironworks played in the growth of the Middle Colonies. Students will learn how colonists in places like Pennsylvania and New York used water-powered mills to grind grain and saw lumber, helping their communities thrive. The passage details how ironworks supplied tools, nails, and other metal goods, fueling trade and building strong towns. Through simple cause-and-effect storytelling, students discover how teamwork, problem-solving, and the use of natural resources helped shape early America. Key vocabulary is highlighted, and the passage is supported by a glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, and a timeline. A public domain historical image and a prompt for a coloring page are included. The passage aligns with D2.His.2.3-5, D2.His.6.3-5, RI.4.3, RI.4.4, W.4.2 standards. Spanish translation and read aloud audio are provided for accessibility. This resource is perfect for classroom use, supporting both history and literacy skill development.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Cambria Iron Works, Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Source: Library of Congress

The Middle Colonies were known for their busy towns and strong farms. People living in places like Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey needed ways to turn crops and resources into useful goods. One important way they did this was by building mills and ironworks.

Farmers grew wheat, corn, and other grains. To make bread and food, these grains had to be ground into flour. Colonists built water-powered gristmills along rivers and streams. The moving water turned big wheels, called waterwheels. These wheels made heavy stones spin and crush grain into flour. It was hard work to carry sacks of grain to the mill, but the flour was much easier to use and sell.

Other mills, called sawmills, cut logs into boards for building homes and shops. With more mills, towns grew quickly. People had more food, better houses, and new jobs. Mills were often the center of town life. People met there to talk and trade news while waiting for their flour or boards.

The Middle Colonies were also famous for their ironworks. Colonists found iron ore in the ground. Workers melted the ore in large, hot furnaces. They made tools, nails, pots, and pans. Blacksmiths and workers shaped the hot iron into things people needed. One ironworker said, "We make what the town cannot live without." These goods were traded far away, even to England.

Building mills and ironworks was not easy. It took teamwork and skill. People had to clear land, dig canals, and build strong buildings. Sometimes, fires or floods damaged the mills. But the colonists worked together to fix them. Over time, the Middle Colonies became known for their strong towns and busy markets.

Mills and ironworks helped the Middle Colonies grow. They turned natural resources into useful things. This made life better for everyone. People came from other places to find work and start new lives. The Middle Colonies became a place of hard work and hope.

Interesting Fact: Some ironworks in Pennsylvania made over 200 tons of iron each year, making the region one of the top producers in the world at that time!

What did gristmills do?

Ground grain into flourCut stone into blocksMelted ironMade cheese

Which colony was known for ironworks?

PennsylvaniaGeorgiaVirginiaFlorida

What powered the mill wheels?

Moving waterStrong windsHorsesSteam engines

Why were ironworks important?

Made tools and nailsBuilt shipsBaked breadCaught fish

What happened when mills were damaged?

Colonists fixed them togetherThey were left brokenMoved to another townStopped growing grain

How did mills help towns grow?

Provided jobs and goodsBuilt castlesFought in warsGrew fruit