Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site in Elverson, one of 21 national parks in Pennsylvania, offers visitors interested in industrial history the chance to see a restored iron plantation, writes Harriet Comley for travel2next. 

The ironmaking company called Hopewell Furnace opened in 1771 and remained in operation until 1883 when the production of steel made ironmaking obsolete. 

It was more than an ironmaking facility. It was a self-contained community with worker’s houses, church, general store, and even an apple orchard. 

Today, visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to see the cold blast furnace, ironmasters, and the blacksmith’s shop. The 1782 Bethesda Church and the community store are also on the must-see list. 

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is guaranteed to provide a brilliant historic day outing for the entire family. 

Pennsylvania’s range of national parks covers historic sites, scenic trails, recreation areas, and national battlefields–something for everyone.

In Philadelphia alone, there’s the Independence Hall National Historical Park, the Edgar Allen Poe National Historic site, the Gloria Dei (Old Swede’s Church and the Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial. Also nearby is Valley Forge National Historical Park.

Read more about the wide variety of places to visit among Pennsylvania’s 21 national parks in travel2next. 

Here’s the visitor orientation film for Hopewell Furnace.