The National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum
Coventry Forge — 1717
Site Name: Coventry Forge

Location: Coventry, Chester County

Dates of Operation: 1717 to 1871 

Owners: Robert and Rebecca Grace; Thomas Potts; John Davis; George Chrisman

Historical Significance: Coventry Forge was the first iron forge built in Chester County, and the second built in Pennsylvania. The forge was an important site in both the birth and growth of the iron industry in Pennsylvania and colonial America. A large community was built around the forge. Today, known as Coventryville Historic District, the community is on the National Register of Historic Places.