Furnace Foundations: the story of Thomas Rutter

Iron researcher and author, Dan Graham, presents on the historic origins of the Pennsylvania iron industry, through the story of Thomas Rutter on Saturday, November 5, 2022, at 1 p.m., at Pottsgrove Manor. Before the Potts family became the leading iron-producing family in colonial Pennsylvania, it was Thomas Rutter who started the industry with the first blast furnace, Colebrookdale. Rutter set the foundations for the growth and expansion of Pennsylvania iron across the Atlantic world. Learn how family descendents including Ruth Savage Potts (Rutter’s granddaughter) impacted the trajectory of the iron business throughout the 18th century. Graham will highlight how the story of one person can still be connected to in our modern community. Tour the Potts family 1752 manor house before or after the lecture to learn about the Potts family and life during the 18th century. The Museum Shop will also be open to purchase books, games, period reproduction items, and much more. This event is rain or shine and there is a suggested $2 donation per person for this lecture.