![]() This part of Virginia contained large amounts of iron and by the late 18th century several iron furnaces existed. The area was cleared of timber to provide wood and charcoal for the furnaces. Catharine Furnace was one of the major furnaces of the area. Recent archaeological work reveals the extent of the industry at this site. Hundreds of people worked and lived here. The artist depiction shows only a small portion of the vast area occupied by the complex. ![]() ![]() As a busy industrial site, Catharine Furnace sat at a road intersection. Upon reaching the furnace, "Stonewall" Jackson's men turned left onto what is now Jackson Trail East. Joe Hooker learned of the Confederate march around 8:00 am, but waited until 2:00 PM before sending a reconnaissance-in-force to ascertain the purpose of the Confederate column and break it up. General Sickles III Corps was sent down the road from Hazel Grove to the furnace, but arrived too late to either obtain information on Jackson's march or to damage it.
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Last updated: July 28, 2015