Shot Tower Historical State Park

Shot Tower is a 75-foot stone structure in Max Meadows built with a tapered cone shape for making ammunition. The tower was connected to an underground shaft and water basin where the manufacturing process was completed.

Built in 1851, this tower was one of a handful of shot manufacturing facilities operating in America during the 1800s. It operated for decades before ceasing production and eventually becoming a historical landmark.

The tower shows how Americans made ammunition through clever engineering and hard work in the 1800s. Standing here, you can understand why this place mattered to people who built weapons and tools during that era.

The grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset, allowing you to walk around and view the structure from the outside. Guided tours are sometimes available during warmer months and provide detailed information about how it worked.

What makes this place special is the physics-based production method where molten lead fell from the top and formed perfect spheres in midair. This technique was so effective that it was adopted in other countries and remained the best way to make ammunition for many years.

Location: Virginia

Website: https://dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/shot-tower

GPS coordinates: 36.88440,-80.85310

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:30