The Eastern Iron Belt has produced iron since the early pioneer days.  Tradition holds that the earliest forge in the state was built in Bumpass Cove in Washington County, at Emeryville (Embreeville).  Although it has been reported that this bloomery forge was built as early as the Revolutionary War, the more often given date of 1790 is probably more accurate.  From this time through the early 20th century, the Eastern Iron Belt produced a wealth of iron.  In more recent years this production has decreased drastically, but does continue.
 

The following table provides a preliminary list of the furnaces, forges, and works located in the Eastern Iron Belt.
 
 

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Last update: June 8, 2000