Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site, in Saugus, Massachusetts, is a reconstruction of an iron-making plant on the Saugus River where skilled iron workers trained from 1646 to 1668. The plant spurred other colonial iron works and industry, giving rise to America’s thriving iron and steel industry. Archaeologists found this critical manufacturing site in 1948.
The historic site includes an open-air museum displaying 1600’s engineering operations and iron-making technology. The museum’s collection includes cast and wrought iron products, tools, and hardware. The museum demonstrates the impact industrial manufacturing had on society, politics, and the environment.
Also on the site is a reconstructed blast furnace, forge, rolling mill, and Iron Works House, which contains 1600’s furnishings. Guided tours display active waterwheels and machinery and include a blacksmithing demonstration. A nature trail 1/2 mile (0.8 kilometer) long leads through 9 acres (3.6 hectares) of marsh and woodlands.
In 1954, the grounds opened to the public. In 1969, the privately owned First Iron Works Association donated the site to the National Park Service. The Park Service maintains and operates the buildings.
