Shot Tower Historical State Park, located in Austinville,
Virginia, is a fascinating historical site centered around the Jackson Ferry Shot Tower, a 75-foot limestone structure built in 1807 by Thomas Jackson. Overlooking the scenic New River, the tower was used to produce lead shot for early settlers’ firearms by melting lead from nearby Austinville Mines and dropping it through a sieve into a 150-foot shaft, where it cooled into spherical ammunition. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the tower offers visitors a glimpse into early American industry, with interpretive signs detailing its history. The 10-acre
State Park, part of the
New River Trail State Park, provides access to hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning river views, with the tower open for free tours on scheduled summer days, though a parking fee applies.
Contact Information:
116 Orphanage Dr.
Max Meadows, VA 24360
Phone: (276) 699-6778
Tower:
The Shot Tower was constructed by Thomas Jackson over seven years, being completed in 1807. Molten lead was poured through a sieve and dropped 150 feet, forming round shot as it dropped into a water kettle. The tower was donated to the state and opened to the public in 1968. The interior was closed due to construction when we visited, but could still walk around and view from outside.
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