The Development of the Colonial Iron Industry

A lecture by Jim Polczynski
Tuesday evening, July 14, 2026, at 7:00 pm

The Cornwall Iron Furnace is a striking example of a cold-blast furnace’s operations during revolutionary times, but it is only one part of a much larger story. This presentation explores the development of ironmaking in the colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries and situates these developments within the broader context of worldwide iron production.

The speaker, James Polczynski, has worked as a consulting Knowledge Engineer for various steel companies, including Bethlehem Steel, Lukens Steel, Dofasco Steel and Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel. He developed an interest in the iron and steel industry in Lebanon and Cornwall while renovating and restoring the Cornwall Company Store. He is the author of “Souls of Iron” which tells the remarkable story of the Coleman iron dynasty. Jim also is currently the president of the Friends of the Cornwall Iron Furnace.

This in-person and online lecture will utilize the Zoom platform.
Registration is required for online attendance only. To register for the virtual lecture please go to:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NYZskKNAQUipUSbu8sfvIg

The presentation is offered at no cost to attendees, but donations are greatly appreciated and can be made in person or by following this link:
https://givebutter.com/supportcifa

Physical Address:
94 Rexmont Rd
Cornwall, PA 17016