Charcoal, Mining and the History Hidden in Our Woods

Monday, November 16, 2026

6:30 p.m. • Simsbury Public Library

Join us for a fascinating look at the history of charcoal production and mining in Simsbury and the surrounding region and the important role these industries played in Connecticut’s development.

From the mid-1700s through the early 20th century, charcoal was in great demand throughout northwestern Connecticut. Made from the region’s abundant forests, charcoal provided fuel for blacksmithing, iron making and other industries, including brass and gunpowder production.

Evidence of this history can still be found in the landscape today. Numerous charcoal hearth sites are located along Simsbury’s western ridgeline and in the surrounding area, including on Simsbury Land Trust’s Westledge properties and at McLean Game Refuge. These sites offer a glimpse into the people who worked these woodlands and the industries that once depended upon them.

The presentation will also explore the region’s mining history and its connection to Connecticut’s iron industry.

About the Speaker

Mike Weber is a 1982 geosciences graduate of Penn State who draws upon a 36-year career with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and U.S. Geological Survey. His book, Always More Production, chronicles the region’s mining history through photographs, historical documents and records from the Cornwall Ore Bank Co. and Bethlehem Steel Corp. archives. Now retired from federal service, Weber serves as a guide and researcher at Cornwall Furnace, where he shares the history of Connecticut’s iron and mining industries with visitors.

Sponsored by Simsbury Land Trust, Simsbury Historical Society, McLean Game Refuge and Simsbury PUblic Library

Presentation Registration

Please register for the presentation through the Simsbury Public Library website.

Explore the History in Person: Guided Charcoal Hearth Hikes

Take your understanding of Simsbury’s charcoal-making history one step further with a guided hike to historic charcoal hearth sites on McLean Game Refuge property. These hikes offer a unique opportunity to see the remains of charcoal production in the landscape and discover how our local forests once supported Connecticut’s growing industries.

Choose one of two hike dates:

• Friday, November 20, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.: https://forms.gle/KTbcPQywvViAgJkJ7
• Saturday, November 21, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.: https://forms.gle/2X6inV9ZQJ7eD4U58

Space is limited to 30 participants per hike. Advance registration is required.

Register for a Guided Hike: [Insert Registration Link]

Please note that the presentation and guided hikes require separate registration. Participants are welcome to attend either or both activities.