Mount Riga Ironworks

Mount Riga Ironworks, in remote northwestern Salisbury, Connecticut, was one of the most successful iron-making centers of the late colonial and early United States periods. Operating from 1762, it became especially important during the American Revolution and the War of 1812, producing high-quality iron for cannons, munitions, ship anchors, and bar iron used by federal armories. At its peak, the works supported a community of about 1,200 people with houses, a school, post office, and store. The remains, including an 1810 forge believed to be Connecticut’s only surviving cold blast furnace, preserve the industrial and community history of this mountain district.

Salisbury, Connecticut · United States