The Beauty Around Us

Bob and I went for a drive, yesterday, alongside the Clarion River. It was nice to be out of the house for a few hours, see nice scenery, and get some fresh air.

Helen Iron Furnace

Our first stop, en route Clarion River, was at the Helen Iron Furnace. Helen’s Furnace is located about 8 miles north of Clarion.  According to a sign at this site, this cold blast furnace was built in 1845. It was operational until 1857. In 1856, within a 26 week period of operation, the furnace generated 1,000 tons of iron. The furnace is 32′ high, 12′ across at the top, 30′ across at the bottom, and had an 8′ bosh.

About 10 minutes after leaving the Helen Iron Furnace, we passed by an interesting sight. Bob kept driving, although I remarked “hey look at that!”. A few seconds later Bob asked if I wanted him to turn around. I said “yes, please”. Bob turned around and found a place to pull off the road across from what appeared to be a collection of junk, or perhaps an antique shop. The area was roped off and several no trespassing signs dotted the landscape.

The remaining photographs were taken during our drive alongside the green (yes green!) Clarion River. The river and the roadway are extremely busy in the summer months. On this early Spring day we enjoyed a peaceful drive along River Road.

We lucked out, arriving at River Road after 1:00 PM. The road had been closed until noon as runners participated in the Cook Forest Half Marathon.