A Mysterious Woodland Trail In Alabama Will Take You To The Original Irondale Furnace Ruins
Alabama is home to many trails waiting to be explored. While some of these trails are well known, others aren’t. One trail in particular that many people are unfamiliar with is the Irondale Furnace Trail. To learn all about this trail, take a look below.
The Irondale Furnace Trail is situated off the beaten path in Mountain Brook, Alabama. Because of its "hidden" location, not many people are aware it exists.
This scenic trail, which runs along a creek and is primarily used for walking and jogging, is 3/4 mile in length and has an easy rating. It's the perfect trail for all skill levels.
While strolling along the trail, you'll notice special plaques. These tell about the facility that once stood in the area, as well as Iron Master Wallace S. McElwain, the man who operated it. The facility, known as the Irondale Furnace, included a tramway, a quarry, an ore mine, a few blacksmith’s shops, a foundry, employee housing, stables, and a commissary. It was built in 1863, but was sadly destroyed by the Fourth Iowa Veteran Volunteers in 1865. It was rebuilt in 1866 and ceased production in 1873. Interestingly, the Irondale Furnace was Alabama's first furnace to go back into operation following the Civil War.
The next time you're in the Mountain Brook area, consider taking a stroll along the Irondale Furnace Trail. Its history is something everyone should experience.
