The Furnace Town Historic Site is a historic preserve which explores the story of Furnace Town, an old company town that existed in the mid-19th century. Located within Pocomoke State Forest and the Nassawango Creek Preserve, Furnace Town was built by the Maryland Iron Company to house workers for the Nassawango Iron Furnace. From 1828 to 1850, about 300 people lived and worked in Furnace Town to service the furnace at its peak. However, by 1850 the furnace reported bankruptcy and the town soon dissolved. By 1929, only a few foundations of previous buildings and the furnace remained.
Today, what remains of the historic site has been preserved and is open to the public to explore and learn about Furnace Town, its impact on the region and the burgeoning of industry on the Eastern Shore. Guided tours, a museum and visitor center relay the years of history found on the grounds, with nearby trails snaking through Pocomoke State Forest.
Chesapeake Bay
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service