The Incredible Iron Furnaces In Pennsylvania That Have Been Left In Ruins
By Beth Price-Williams|Published March 27, 2024
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Isn’t it amazing the many ways we can soak up the rich history of Pennsylvania? We’ve got the traditional ways – reading books and visiting museums – but Pennsylvania is also home to countless ruins that promise a unique way to experience history. The iron furnace ruins in Scranton, Pennsylvania, don’t require much time to explore, but they certainly provide a fascinating glimpse into the past.
You can't miss the sign for the Scranton Iron Furnaces, tucked along Cedar Avenue in Scranton, and open to visitors from dawn to dusk all year round.
Ample free parking is available at this historic site in Pennsylvania.
All that remains of the once-thriving Lackawanna Iron & Steel Company plant, the four stone blast furnaces offer a look at the early days of the iron industry in the United States.
The iron and steel company opened in 1840 and quickly established itself as a leader in the industry, producing more iron than any of its competitors in the United States.
As you stroll along the grounds of the massive iron furnaces, you'll pass educational placards that provide insight into the history of the Lackawanna Iron & Steel Company and the role it played during the Industrial Revolution.
Have you been to these ruins in Scranton, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! Did you know that there’s a magnificent gorge in Scranton, too? If you’ve got time, explore Nay Aug Gorge in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Before you set off on your next adventure, pack your camera and plenty of water.