Cornwall Iron Furnace

The Cornwall Iron Furnace is an 18th-century iron-making facility in Pennsylvania with a large stone blast furnace, water-powered wheels, and several outbuildings. The site includes a charging house, casting house, and residential structures that together formed a complete production system.

The furnace began operations in 1742 and played a key role in supplying iron during the Revolutionary War period. It continued running until the late 1800s, making it one of the longest-operating facilities of its kind.

The complex reveals how workers and their families lived and worked together at this location during the 1700s. The standing buildings show how the iron-making operation shaped daily life for an entire community.

The site is best visited on weekends when guided tours are available. Plan enough time to explore the various buildings and walk around the grounds.

This is the only fully surviving charcoal cold-blast furnace complex in the Western Hemisphere and retains its original plantation setting. Visitors can see how iron production was intertwined with land management.

Location: Cornwall

Inception: 1742

GPS coordinates: 40.27056,-76.40611

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42