Paterson, New Jersey, was established in the 1790s to utilize the power of the water that cascades through the Passaic River Gorge. Massive brick mill buildings lined the canals that transformed the power of the falls into energy to drive machines. These mills manufactured many things during the history of this industrial city. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they produced silk fabrics in such quantities that Paterson was known as the "Silk City." Today, many of the mill buildings survive, mute witnesses to a turbulent history. This lesson is based on several National Historic Landmark nomination files, the National Register of Historic Places registration file, Belle Vista, and additional information. The lesson can be used in U.S. history, social studies, and geography courses in units on labor-management conflict and the rise of unions, or on immigration. It contains eight sections: (1) "About This Lesson"; (2) "Getting Started: Inquiry Question"; (3) "Setting the Stage: Historical Context"; (4) "Locating the Site: Maps" (Paterson and Surrounding Region; Great Falls/S.U.M. Historic District); (5) "Determining the Facts: Readings" (Working 'In the Silk'; Strike!; Owners and Workers); (6) "Visual Evidence: Images" (Dye House in the S.U.M. District, ca. 1910; Dye House Workers, ca. 1900; Silk Weaving Mill in the S.U.M. District; Jacquard Silk Looms, ca. 1900; Belle Vista (Lambert Castle), 1896; Strike Rally at the Botto House, 1913); (7) "Putting It All Together: Activities" (Working and Workers; Labor Unions and Strikes; Local Industry); and (8) "Supplementary Resources." (BT)