Marking 50 years since the closure of the Cornwall Ore Mines, a new publication offers a comprehensive look into one of the world’s most prolific iron ore mining operations.
“Always More Production,” penned by local geologist and historian Michael Weber, is available at the Cornwall Iron Furnace museum store. The Friends of Cornwall Iron Furnace unveiled the book in conjunction with the milestone anniversary.
Weber, a 1982 geosciences graduate from Penn State, draws upon his 36-year career with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the U.S. Geological Survey to provide a well-researched chronicle of the mines. The book features photographs, historical documents, and data from the Cornwall Ore Bank Co. and Bethlehem Steel Corp. archives.
Retired from federal service, Weber currently serves as a guide and researcher at Cornwall Furnace. He is on site most Fridays, meeting guests and autographing his book.
The Cornwall Ore Mines, operational from 1737 to 1973, excavated over 106 million tons of ore. Thousands of workers found homes in the surrounding villages of Cornwall, Burd Coleman, Rexmont, and Minersvillage.
The mines ceased operations following Tropical Storm Agnes and evolving market conditions.
The book is available for purchase at the Furnace for $40, plus tax, during opening hours, Friday through Sunday. Alternatively, buyers can call the site at 717-272-9711 to have a copy shipped for an additional $8 fee for shipping and handling.
Administered by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission, Cornwall Iron Furnace stands as North America’s most complete cold-blast furnace. For more information, contact the furnace at 717-272-9711 or visit www.cornwallironfurnace.org.
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