Speedwell Forge

Speedwell Forge is a Georgian mansion built from brownstone and fieldstone with 2.5 stories, four bays wide and two bays deep. The property includes multiple historic outbuildings such as a stone summer kitchen and other structures that date to its period of operation as an iron forge.

A Welsh emigrant established this operation in 1760 to produce bar iron that was distributed across the colonies and England for nearly a century. Iron production at this location became an important part of early American industry during that period.

The property served as a center of rural life where traditional iron-making skills were passed down through generations. Visitors can still sense this working heritage through the stone buildings and preserved workshops scattered across the grounds.

The site is located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania and covers a large natural area with walking trails throughout the grounds. Visitors can explore the property on foot to see the historic buildings and surrounding landscape at their own pace.

The grounds now house the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania, where visitors can join educational programs and learn about wolf conservation work. This current use connects the property's historical past with modern wildlife protection efforts.

Location: Elizabeth Township

Architectural style: Georgian architecture

Address: 465 Speedwell Forge Road

GPS coordinates: 40.21556,-76.33111

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:40