Sloss Furnaces
The crossing of railroads in 1872 adjacent to this site gave rise to the industrial city of Birmingham. In 1881 Alabama railroad magnate and entrepreneur James Withers Sloss, capitalizing on the unusual coincidence of coal, iron ore and limestone in the area, founded the Sloss Furnace Company as an iron manufacturer and built blast furnaces beside the railroad crossing. Production of pig iron at Sloss Furnaces began in 1882 and continued for almost 90 years. Early 20th century additions to the facility represent important technological developments in the iron-making process and serve as a monument to the thousands who have worked in Birmingham industry.
Donated to the City of Birmingham in 1971 by Jim Walter Corporation, the Sloss Furnaces were designated a National Historic Landmark in 1981.
Marker can be reached from 1st Avenue North (U.S. 11) near 32nd Street North.
Courtesy hmdb.org
