Mill at Anselma to host speaker on iron industry

Lecture will be about history of iron industry in Chester County

CHESTER SPRINGS >> Guest speaker Neil Hobbins will talk about the History of the Iron Industry in northern Chester County during an event on Thursday held by the Mill at Anselma.

Hobbins is a historic site supervisor for Pottsgrove Manor, the 18th century home of John Potts, successful ironmaster and merchant. Previously he served as the executive director for the Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust.

The lecture, open to the public, will be held at Bell Hall, Montgomery School at 1141 Kimberton Road in Chester Springs. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with a wine and cheese reception, followed by the lecture. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $5. Members of the Mill at Anselma attend free of charge.

The iron industry flourished in Chester County due to its rich iron ore deposits and plentiful water supply. Iron works, such as the Phoenixville Iron Works, introduced new designs for American cannons in the Civil War and for iron bridge building and construction. They also produced iron rails in the 1840s, paving the way for the “railroad mania” of that time. Attendees can learn more about the Phoenixville Iron Works and others that populated Northern Chester County when the local iron industry flourished.

The Mill at Anselma served its local agricultural community for nearly 300 years and is considered the most complete example of a Colonial-era custom grist mill in the United States. Restored and recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the Mill provides an educational experience, allowing visitors to experience Pennsylvania’s industrial and agricultural heritage through milling demonstrations, tours of the site, handson activities, and its speaker series. The Mill is located on Route 401 (1730 Conestoga Road), a halfmile west of Route 113 in Chester Springs.

For more information, contact the Mill at Anselma at 610827-1906 or email info@anselmamill.org, or visit www.anselmamill.org.