The Falling Creek Ironworks Foundation What We Do

The purposes of the FCIW are:

• To promote the study of the rich historic and industrial heritage of the Falling Creek area from the 1619-1622 Virginia Company Falling Creek Ironworks to Cary's Chesterfield Forge to the last operations in the 20th century of William Byrd's 17th century gristmill.

• To work for the proper conservation and exploration of this ironworks archaeological sites and materials.

• To encourage the scientific study of ironworking sites and materials.

• To promote the spread of archaeological knowledge through the media of publications, meetings, lectures, exhibits, etc. related to Falling Creek.

The Falling Creek Ironworks Committee was formed to protect, evaluate and promote the ironworks at Falling Creek. American heavy industry began at this site. Wartime iron production for the Revolutionary War occurred here. The blast furnace built here in 1621 was the first in the New World.

The FCIW Committee works with Chesterfield County to promote the site.

FCIW is based on volunteers who donate their time and expertise to the study, investigation and promotion of this historic site.

Geophysical Survey Results at Falling Creek using a Fluxgate Magnetometer pinpoint the furnace location.

About the FCIW

Members of the FCIW come from all walks of life. Many of our members had little or no formal training in the science and art of archaeology before they got involved with the FCIW. Anyone with an interest in ironworks, archaeology, history, or old things is invited to help. No prior knowledge, skills, or aptitudes are required, although an enjoyment of being outdoors is recommended.

William Byrd's Gristmill Ruins

The Society is a strictly volunteer organization. None of the officers, board members, or support staff are paid for the time they contribute. The money that the FCIW brings in is used to investigate and promote the ironworks site.