Historic Environments

Acclaimed as one of the most important metalworks in America throughout the Civil War era, The West Point Foundry is most renowned for the Parrot gun, a high precision cannon-like weapon. Situated near the Hudson, with a neighboring iron ore, and lots of trees, the Foundry was well equipped with natural resources for manufacturing. The Foundry’s claim to fame is that Abraham Lincoln is visited the site to view an equipment demonstration. From 1952-1979 a neighboring battery company dumped tons of toxic waste into Foundry cove, which had detrimental effects on the ecology of the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency identified the region as a superfund site and invested $100 million dollars to clean it up. By 1996, the site was taken off the superfund registry and bought by Scenic Hudson. From operational foundry, to sludge site, to historically preserved wonder, the West Point Foundry is definitely a site worth seeing.

Representatives of Scenic Hudson discussing the site.

Today, Scenic Hudson preserves 87 acres and markets the Foundry as an “outdoor museum.” You can find well maintained trails and artistic representations of historic machinery, including a full-scale model of a waterwheel that powered the Boring Mill. The ruins of several buildings remain, which give a taste for the history once had there. In addition, you can take a self guided audio tour through the use of a comprehensive digital app.

Ruins of the 1865 Office Building

The site provides a stunning viewshed and represents more than just a history of Industrial America. Today, the West Point Foundry illustrates an important environmental renewal site. Come and walk your dog, or ride your bike as you enjoy miles of foot trails and picnic areas.

Foundry Brook