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Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park: A Civil War Legacy

Explore a Civil War-era iron furnace and memorial park on the shores of Weiss Lake in Cedar Bluff, Alabama. A blend of history and nature.

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Explore the well-preserved remains of a Civil War-era iron furnace at Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park, nestled on the shores of Weiss Lake in Cedar Bluff, Alabama. The park offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past and honors Cherokee County service members from all wars.

A brief summary to Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the park and furnace remains.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the scenic Weiss Lake.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for the most pleasant weather.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park is located at 1200 County Road 251, Cedar Bluff, AL 35959. From Cedar Bluff, head east on AL-9 for approximately 2 miles, then turn left onto County Road 92 and drive 1.5 miles. Turn right at the T-intersection, and the park will be about 0.5 miles ahead. Parking is available at the park. There are no tolls or mandatory access fees.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Cedar Bluff, a taxi or ride-share service is necessary to reach Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park, as public transportation does not directly connect to the park. A short trip from the town center will cost approximately $15-$25, depending on the service and demand.

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Discover more about Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park

Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park, located in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, is a unique destination that combines historical significance with natural beauty. The park's centerpiece is the remarkably preserved Cornwall Furnace, a relic from the Civil War era. Erected in 1862 by the Noble Brothers, the cold blast furnace supplied iron ore to Confederate foundries in Rome, Georgia, for the production of armaments. Named after the Noble Brothers' native Cornwall, England, the furnace represents the Confederacy's resourcefulness during the war. Slave labor was used to construct the furnace and dig a half-mile canal from the Chattooga River to power the air blast. The furnace produced approximately six tons of pig iron daily, which was used to manufacture cannons and other war materials. Union troops partially destroyed the furnace in 1864, but it was rebuilt and operated until 1875 when an industrial explosion caused it to permanently shut down. In 1972, Cornwall Furnace was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The Cherokee County Historical Society spearheaded efforts to preserve and restore the site, transforming it into a memorial park dedicated to Cherokee County service members from all wars. Today, visitors can explore the 50-foot tall furnace stack, picnic areas, and a veterans' memorial, all while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Weiss Lake. The park offers a nature trail and interpretive signage detailing the site's history.

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