The history of the City of Paterson includes its beginnings as the ambitious project of Alexander Hamilton and the Society for Establishing Useful Manufacturers (S.U.M.) in 1792 at the Great Falls, the early development of water power systems for industrial use, and the various types of manufacturing that occurred in the District's mills into the 20th Century. These included cotton fabrics, railroad locomotives, textile machinery, jute, and silk spinning, weaving, and dyeing, among many others. The Great Falls also represents compelling stories of the lives of immigrants who labored in the mills, those who owned and operated manufacturing concerns and became wealthy, and the quest of laborers and the labor movement for better working conditions and pay. Immigrants still settle today in Paterson to pursue their versions of Hamilton's vision, creating a diverse and vibrant culture.

Lambert Castle, referred to as "The Castle" by many local residents, is the late Victorian-era mansion of former silk magnate Catholina Lambert. It was in the castle that Catholina Lambert displayed many of his prized European and American paintings. The historic site represents one of several rare examples of castellated residential architecture in America. Lambert Castle was listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places in 1975 and the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. For a long stretch of time, visitors were invited to explore permanent period room exhibits and indulge in scenic view of the New York City skyline. The museum also presented changing exhibits that reflected the local history of Passaic County. Today, Lambert Castle, grounds, and tower are under renovation and closed to the public. The project is expected to be completed in 2025.