RV rental Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, PA: Motorhome rentals, camper van rentals and more

Ironmaster Mark Bird moved from Philadelphia to a remote part of central Pennsylvania, correctly believing that easier and closer access to the coal mines in that region would give him a leg up on his competition. From there, his enterprise grew tenfold to achieve what would be called an “iron plantation.” The sprawling compound had a couple of dozen buildings, mills, barns, furnaces, and forges. However, when Pennsylvania switched from using coal to anthracite, the move adversely impacted forges like Hopewell, and the enterprise slowly dwindled in size until it shut doors in 1883.

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site was declared a historic site in 1938, thanks to the efforts of the Civilian Conservation Corps, which was established under President Roosevelt’s New Deal. Since then, several original structures have been restored, and efforts on the remaining buildings are still undergoing. It will take several years to completely rehabilitate the property. Visitors are heartily welcomed throughout the year, and in the summer months, the park officials and employees conduct living-history demonstrations to help better illustrate what life was like in rural Pennsylvania during those years. Some demonstrations include processing coal, working iron in forges, and cooking in a period-appropriate kitchen.

The closest large town is Elverson, PA, which is about six miles south. The small town has a handful of restaurants, a grocery store, and a truly excellent coffee cafe. For more variety in shopping, including a Walmart store, as well as a health center with emergency services, Pottstown, is about 10 miles to the northeast. Search for an RV in Berks County, PA, and set out on an outdoor adventure with family and friends.