The Flume Gorge

The Besaw Iron Furnace Interpretive Center in Franconia, NH is home to the only blast furnace still standing in the state of New Hampshire. Built over 200 years ago, this octagonal stone stack was once a thriving iron smelter, rebuilt and expanded several times throughout its history. Visitors can explore the center to learn about the iron production process, view a scale model of the furnace, and see various artifacts and displays related to the industry. Located on private property across the Gale River, the stone stack is visible from the picnic area, but trespassing is prohibited due to the danger of falling stones. The Interpretive Center is maintained by dedicated volunteers who also manage the Franconia Heritage Museum, offering visitors a comprehensive experience of the region's ironworks history. Admission to the center is free, and donations are welcome to support its preservation and educational efforts.Generated from the website