The iron furnace is the most visible remains of what was once a thriving iron mining industry in the Arcadia Valley. The first iron furnace was constructed in 1848, but was destroyed by the rebel army after the Battle of Pilot Knob. It was rebuilt a year later and mining operations resumed. It was near here, prior to the frontal assaults on Ft. Davidson by the rebel army, that Major Wilson, Captain Dinger, and five men were taken prisoner.