We bet you’ve never seen anything like this. Illinois is full of historic wonders, but none compare to this ancient, abandoned structure nestled in the forest. Step back in time and learn the history of the iron industry while exploring one of the most beautiful landscapes in the state.

This unique spot is slowly being reclaimed by nature, and you have to check it out. Keep scrolling for all the details.

Right along the Ohio River in Hardin County, near the tiny town of Rosiclare, there is a little-known structure with an interesting past.
Wikimedia Commons/David Wilson
The town was founded by gangsters and used to be the fluorite capital of the nation.
Built between 1837 and 1839, this ancient iron furnace is made from brick and was once used to smelt iron, which was mined nearby.
Wikimedia Commons/Nyttend
Due to the Civil War, there was a shortage of workers, which lead to the end of operations from 1861 to 1868. It did not permanently close until 1883, when it was abandoned to ruin.
Flickr/U.S. Department of Agriculture
This historic furnace is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and there is a surrounding picnic area for visitors.

Related Stories

The Story Behind This Ghost Town Cemetery In Illinois Will Chill You To The Bone

The Story Behind This Ghost Town Cemetery In Illinois Will Chill You To The Bone

 There's A Hike In Illinois That Leads You Straight To An Abandoned Prehistoric Fort

There's A Hike In Illinois That Leads You Straight To An Abandoned Prehistoric Fort

 Everyone In Illinois Should See What’s Inside The Walls Of This Abandoned Fort

Everyone In Illinois Should See What’s Inside The Walls Of This Abandoned Fort
The Illinois Iron Furnace is located in the Shawnee National Forest, which lies between the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.
Flickr/U.S. Department of Agriculture
Popular natural wonders contained within this preserve also include Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock Recreational Center, and River to River Trail.
Shawnee offers photo opportunities you can't miss. Waterfalls, rock formations, bluffs, and valleys abound in this forest.
Flickr/Curtis Abert
You can even stay overnight in cabins or go camping, and enjoy restaurants and other attractions.
Though it was heavily damaged in the 1930s by roadway construction, the Illinois Iron Furnace was reconstructed in 1967, but nature is already reclaiming it.
Wikimedia Commons
Vines crawl up the sides, loosening the bricks one by one. Stop by this abandoned spot before it has been completely overtaken!

If you love nature, don’t miss these 12 secret spots in Illinois that are super relaxing.

Have you ever seen this iron furnace before? Share your experiences and photos with us!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Illinois