Centre Furnace Mansion Tours during Penn State Family Weekend

Thank you for scheduling a tour of the Centre Furnace Mansion, a beautifully restored 19th century ironmaster’s residence. The Mansion is restored and furnished to reflect the period of residency of ironmaster Moses Thompson and his family, 1842-1891. Through a guided tour, you will learn about the historical significance of Centre Furnace, the connection to Penn State, the iron-making process and Victorian life through the lens of the Mansion's collections.

The Centre Furnace Mansion and surrounding grounds is on the National Register of Historic Places and represents a small portion of the late 18th-19th century ironmaking village once located here. The site includes the Centre Furnace Mansion, Furnace Stack, and surrounding eight acres of landscaped grounds with walkways and period inspired gardens. Its interpretation is based on historical documentation and archaeological research.

• Please allow 1 hour for the tour. Each time slot can accomodate up to 15 guests.
• The Centre Furnace Mansion is wheelchair-accessible on the ground and first floors. The second floor is only accessible by stairs. Please notify us if any of your guests require special assistance.
• The Centre Furnace Mansion is located at 1001 East College Avenue, at the corner of East College Avenue (Route 26) and Porter Road – on the southeast corner of the Penn State Campus (1 mile from downtown State College, and 1 mile from Beaver Stadium). The Mansion is set back from the road, behind several historic trees. Our parking lot is available off Porter Road. Find us on Google Maps
• PARKING NOTE: Parking is available in the Mansion’s parking lot off of Porter Road, and in the grass lawn along College Avenue. Please note that Frye's Sweeper is open until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. Parking is prohibited in their store front spaces until after they are closed.

Host or Publisher Centre County Historical Society