INDUSTRY · HISTORICAL MARKER
Demonstration Charcoal Mound
Industry
1
A raised circular mound about 30 feet in diameter, surrounded by a narrow circular depression, marks an old charcoal mound. Its unnatural shape and bits of charcoal under the leaf layer are signs of how up to 30 cords of wood were piled high, covered with dirt and leaves, and cooked slowly from within for about two weeks. Approximately 30 bushels of charcoal were produced per cord of firewood, and at peak production an estimated 23 square miles of forests were clearcut each year to supply wood for the charcoal hearths. This demonstration charcoal mound was restored in September 2017 by Friends of American Legion and Peoples State Forest volunteers.
FIND IT
Barkhamsted, Connecticut
CITY · 7 STOPSExplore Barkhamsted, Connecticut
Hear every story as you drive
4.8 Stars · 800+ Ratings
© 2026 MainEngine