The Franconia Iron Furnace is a historic landmark located in Franconia, New Hampshire. Built in the early 19th century, the furnace was used to produce iron for the local mining industry and was a key part of the region’s economy for many years. Local granite was used to build the furnace. Firebrick is set in a cylindrical pattern inside the structure. Clay is used to fill the void between the exterior’s stone and firebrick construction. In order to generate charcoal for the furnace, farmers burned trees. By 1865, there were fewer trees and ore deposits, and Pennsylvania’s iron production was becoming more efficient. The iron was still molten in the furnace’s belly when it was abandoned. When the shed that surrounded the furnace caught fire in 1884, it had been idle for twenty years.

Today, the Franconia Iron Furnace is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore the site and learn about the history of iron production in the area. The furnace’s massive stone walls and towering chimney provide a glimpse into the past and serve as a reminder of the region’s rich industrial heritage. The site also includes interpretive panels and exhibits that provide historical context and information about the iron-making process.