Making Charcoal Iron in Centre County
historical marker
In State College, Centre County, Pennsylvania, a historical marker commemorates the process of Making Charcoal Iron. This marker highlights an industry central to the region's early development. Centre County was rich in the raw materials necessary for charcoal iron production: iron ore, limestone, and extensive forests for making charcoal. The Centre Furnace, a significant site for this industry, was established in 1791 and began operation in 1792. This furnace was crucial to the local economy. The marker was erected by the Centre County Historical Society and the Centre County Community Foundation, recognizing the historical importance of charcoal iron making in this area.