Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site

Activity Overview

The Saugus Iron Works is the birthplace of the American iron and steel industry. Now a national historic site visitors are welcome to come during the summer months and see waterwheels, hot forges, mills and homes as they were in the 1600's when European settlers first began producing iron here.

There are a number of tours and activities which you can partake in if you choose to visit and as the site is also a National Park you can expect a lot of nature too.

Things to Do

• The two main tours on site are the Iron Works House Tour and the Industrial Site Tour. On the first you get the opportunity to tour through a 1680s Iron Works House to learn about life during those times.
• On the Industrial Site Tour you hear from one of the park rangers why the Iron Works were so vital to the early evolution of the Massachusetts colony and about the archaeological excavation of the site in the 1940's and 50's.
• Other highlights of the National Park include a 17th Century Herb Garden and a pleasant nature trail which runs alongside the Saugus River. There is also a museum with a number of artifacts from the archaeological excavation of the site.
• There are activities available in the Visitor's Center for young kids to earn a Junior Ranger Badge.

Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site Insider Tips

• There are plenty more attractions to be enjoyed around Saugus. A list of historic heritage sites can be found on the Essex National Heritage Area website.
• Thought entrance to the park is free some special events may require a fee to enter.