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About the Furnace

Hanging Rock Iron Region

The Hanging Rock Iron Region was a vital link in the early history of industrialization of America. The region was recognized as having the vital elements needed to make iron in the 1830s. Rapid development took place and by the 1860s there were sixty-nine charcoal fired furnace complexes in southern Ohio and northern Kentucky. These were important in providing the iron munitions and other related items during the Civil War.

Making Pig Iron

The production of iron was labor intensive and extremely hot work. From the gathering of the iron ore and limestone to the production of charcoal, employees of the furnace worked hard to provide for their families and contribute to the development of our country.

 

To assist in the production of iron a stationary steam engine was used to help recirculate the hot air produced in the stack to help keep the temperature steady. There had to be a licensed engineer to operate and monitor the engine.

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Buckeye Furnace Historic Site

123 Buckeye Park Road

Wellston, OH 45692

740-384-3537

Park Hours

Open 7 days a week until dark.

Museum  Hours

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays

12pm-4pm, from the beginning of May until the end of October.

© 2024 by Buckeye Furnace Historic Site

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