Spring Open House

Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the historic furnace grounds and experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of early American life. The event features guided furnace tours, the return of the ever-popular Cast Iron Cooking demonstrations, and a variety of engaging new living-history presentations debuting for 2026. Admission includes access to all demonstrations, activities, guided furnace tours, Visitor Center exhibits, and the museum store.

This year’s program highlights how families living and working in the Cornwall community welcomed the spring season in the 18th and 19th centuries. Knowledgeable historians and costumed interpreters will demonstrate historic skills and traditions, such as militia mustering, textile dyeing and spinning, bread baking and butter churning, industrial charcoal burning, and more. Gather around the fire pit to watch skilled volunteer cooks prepare delicious recipes using traditional cast iron cookware over open flame. Visitors can learn practical cooking tips, sample freshly prepared dishes (while supplies last), and discover inspiration for recreating these historic recipes at home. For more information or to reserve a furnace tour, call 717-272-9711.