Roaring Run Furnace

Roaring Run Furnace is an early 19th-century stone structure that consists of several parts: the main smelting chamber, a casting shed, and supporting structures that together formed a complete iron-making facility. The site sits on a small plot of land northwest of Eagle Rock along VA 621.

This furnace was built around 1832 and operated for about 50 years, becoming part of Virginia's growing iron production during a period of rapid industrial expansion. The site reflects the state's shift toward metalworking as an economic driver.

This furnace shows how 19th-century Virginians made iron and marks a shift when the region started turning to industry instead of farming. The stone structures you see today reflect how people worked and produced metal back then.

The site is easy to reach by foot and sits right along the road, making the structures clearly visible from ground level. A visit works best during good weather since the furnace sits outdoors without roof protection.

The stone structure survives in remarkable condition and displays all the key components of an antebellum iron furnace in one location. Visitors can directly observe how the entire process from ore preparation to metal output worked.

Location: Botetourt County

GPS coordinates: 37.70780,-79.89330

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:23