Beckley Furnace stack, restored and stabilized, October 1999. Photo: Ed Kirby

The Beckley Blast Furnace: East Canaan, Connecticut

Built in 1847, the Beckley Furnace is representative of the iron-producing heritage of the northwestern corner of Connecticut. It remained in operation until 1919 and was purchased by the state in 1946 with the intent of preserving the stack. Little was done until 1999, when it was saved from imminent collapse and restored as the state's only designated Industrial Monument. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the hearth has been completely rebuilt with a cut-away section for visitor viewing. Development of the site for archeological and educational purposes continues. The furnace's history and restoration are documented in a binder of text, photographs, and a brochure.

Originally submitted by: Nancy Johnson, Representative (6th District).

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