Historic Carrie Furnace Viewed from Agnes St. in Rankin, PA

I found this amazing view overlooking the historic Carrie Furnace while making a delivery in Rankin, PA which is just up the Mon River from Pittsburgh. My daughter took the photo for me from the end of Agnes Street. It is located across the river from the Waterfront shopping complex built on the site of the old Homestead Works. In this view, Homestead is located on the hill behind the furnace.

The steel mill was built in the 1880's, and was named for Carrie Clark, the 21 year old daughter of William Clark, an owner of the Carrie Furnace Company, who christened the furnace and first lit the fires when it opened. The site is a historic landmark and is being conserved by Rivers of Steel, a nonprofit focused on preserving the region's industrial heritage, educational programs and so much more. You can learn more at https://riversofsteel.com/carrie-clark-she-who-lit-the-flame/

The tall grasses in front reminded me of the sparks flying during the steelmaking process. Painting the mills is a labor of respect for the legacy of generations of workers and their families. Architecture is such a strong part of any community. These massive complexes of the Industrial Revolution played a major role in our country's development, and you simply can't be in Pittsburgh without being touched by that legacy. 

This pastel painting is 11" H x 14" W framed and was exhibited at the North Hills Art Center in Pittsburgh for the Pittsburgh Pastel Artists League Annual Members Show 2023. It is framed with a metal frame and wire hanger.

Prints that are either framed or unframed are available here too for a more affordable option.