The Iron Center Museum

The Iron Center is housed in the Witherbee, Sherman & Co. Carriage House–a building that has been recently restored and is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings. The grounds overlook Lake Champlain and the site of Witherbee, Sherman & Co.’s former shipping and refining operations.

The museum documents the operations of the local iron-ore mining industry from the 1820s to 1971, its impact on worker’s lives, and the preparation, processing, and transport of iron ore on Lake Champlain. Inside, visitors can explore an interactive model with murals of the Mineville and Witherbee mining districts and learn about mining techniques and the connections between mining and railroads. Season and Hours Open
Mid June to Mid October Open Thursday, Friday & Saturday Noon to 3 pm or call for an appointment
Don’t Miss This When Visiting
Videos are available for on-site viewing and numerous exhibits include “Getting the Ore Out,” which features mining practices, people, and products.

The museum also includes a Railroad and Mining Heritage Park that encompasses a number of historic structures once part of the Witherbee-Sherman Mining Company waterfront complex. The Iron Center building was originally a carriage house, ice house, and laboratory for testing iron ore. The remains of a steel trestle, built in 1929 and used for loading ore, can be seen along the waterfront. Outdoor displays include an original locomotive, ore car, and caboose.

Related Sites Or Experiences
Brochures provide a walking tour of Port Henry

Identify And Describe The Management Organization
The museum is staffed by Moriah Historical Society and RSVP volunteers.

Suggested Further Reading
Web site is under development.

Additional Notes And Comments
The site is wheelchair accessible, has a restroom, and plenty of parking.

Donations are accepted.

Fees
no
ADA Accessible
yes
Tours Are Offered
yes
Site is Child-friendly
yes
Site is Pet-friendly
no
Comments
The images on this page as of July 2011 are outdated and don’t do the Iron Center justice. The exhibits were redone in the winter of 2010 and are excellent. The day I visited in June 2011, the docents were both retired miners who regaled us with stories and were able to provide detailed interpretation that brought the objects in the Iron Center to life. I highly recommend a visit to the Iron Center!

Kirsti Uunila, 7/18/2011