Overview
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site offers a vivid window into America’s early industrial era, preserving one of the nation’s finest examples of a 19th-century rural iron-making community. Set within nearly 850 acres of picturesque woodlands, this restored site blends history, nature, and heritage into an unforgettable visitor experience. From the quiet charm of stone buildings to the echo of a once-roaring furnace, the site invites guests to explore how iron production shaped American life during its formative years.
Highlights
Visitors to the site can tour restored structures including the ironmaster’s mansion, blacksmith shop, company store, barn, and worker homes. The centerpiece, a cold-blast furnace powered by charcoal, demonstrates how iron was made before the age of coal and steel mills. Seasonal activities such as casting demonstrations, charcoal-making, and living history programs add interactive depth to the visit. Scenic walking trails lead through the surrounding woodlands and connect to French Creek State Park, providing opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. Educational exhibits, hands-on workshops, and a peaceful landscape make Hopewell Furnace a rewarding destination for both families and history enthusiasts.
History of the Location
Founded in 1771, Hopewell Furnace played a key role in early American industry. It produced iron for tools, stoves, and weaponry, including cannon and shot during the Revolutionary War. The community thrived during the early 1800s, producing thousands of cast-iron products annually at its peak. As industrial methods changed, production at Hopewell declined, and operations ceased in 1883. Decades later, the village was preserved to honor its legacy and was established as a National Historic Site in the 1930s.
Location Address and Contact Information
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
2 Mark Bird Lane
Elverson, PA 19520
Phone: (610) 582-8773
Social Media and Online Presence
Website: www.nps.gov/hofu
Facebook: facebook.com/HopewellFurnaceNHS
Instagram: @hopewellfurnacennhs
Open year-round, Hopewell Furnace offers a unique opportunity to step into the past while enjoying the natural beauty of southeastern Pennsylvania. Whether arriving for a quiet walk or a lively historic demonstration, visitors will find history alive at every turn.
