Hike at Macedonia Forge and Furnace site


Hike at Macedonia Forge and Furnace site

KHS sponsored two guided hikes this summer that allowed people to get out and see areas that were involved in the production of iron.

The Kent Iron Furnace, next to the Eric Sloane Museum, was the site of a bustling blast furnace in the 1800s. Participants July 26 toured the trails created by the State of Connecticut’s Office of Culture and Tourism and the Connecticut Antique Machinery Association. Executive Director Marge Smith shared her extensive knowledge of the site and how iron was created by pointing out the different areas, such as where the dam, water wheel and race were and remnants can still be seen today.

Another site, the Macedonia Forge and Furnace was explored Aug. 17. Tucked away just off the road leading into Macedonia Brook State Park, the furnace ruins are at the edge of Macedonia Brook. Smith led a hike at the other end of the park to explore the Orange Trail to see the many charcoal mounds in the area that date back over 100 years.