National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site1887 image of the furnace
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly

How American Industrialization Began.

Hot, smoky, noisy --- these words describe how Hopewell Furnace looked from 1771 to 1883. Hopewell and other "iron plantations" laid the foundations for America's iron and steel industry. Today, the site stands as an example of America's development during the industrial revolution. The historic buildings stand, open and inviting -- testaments to the strength and endurance of Hopewell's people. 

 
The Tunnel Head where ingredients were entered into the Hopewell Furnace.

Plan Your Visit

Taking a walking tour, experiencing a living history program, picking apples in season, and watching wildlife are just a few of the ways to enjoy the park.  Begin at the park's visitor center where you can learn about all there is to see and do.
more...

 
 
 
 

Write to

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
2 Mark Bird Lane
Elverson, Pennsylvania 19520

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(610) 582-8773

Fax

(610) 582-2768

Climate

Southeastern Pennsylvania's climate is temperate. Summers are usually humid with temperatures ranging from normal highs of 80-95 degrees to lows of 55-70 degrees(F). During winter temperatures range from normal highs of 20-40 degrees to lows of 10-25 degrees(F). Winter conditions can become icy and snow can accumulate up to several inches.
Replica cannon of the type made at Hopewell during the revolution.  

Did You Know?
Early in the American Revolution, colonial ordnance inspector Daniel Joy conducted a sort of school for Pennsylvania ironmasters on the proper method of casting cannon. As a result, in 1776-77 approximately 100 "great guns" were cast at Hopewell Furnace and accepted by the Continental Navy.

Last Updated: October 12, 2007 at 16:18 EST