W.A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop

"Very interesting. Thay made paddle wheeks for bardges and large gears for heavy machines as well as wooden models to work from and all done by 6 people. They take donations and sell T-shirts $10.00."

"This is only open on Sundays, which was not mentioned in the brochure. What we could see through the window looked interesting."

"What a treasure trove of interesting machining fabricating welding and foundry tools from the 1800s. Was a fantastic tour we spent several hours there, the staff was more than happy to show us anything and answer any questions. Would highly recommend it for anyone who is interested in history of machining old equipment or foundry work."

"This place is amazing! A true step back in time. I've never seen such a complete collection of antique industrial machinery in one place, and yes, it all works. The simple complexity of it all left me speechless. To think that a place like this was able to survive scrappers and thieves intact boggles the mind. You really have to see it for yourself, it's soooo worth the trip. Kids will be amazed by the machinery and how it operates, and the gentlemen who were there were incredibly knowledgeable, and eager to show their wares. The attraction is free, though donations are requested, and they are only open on Sundays. Be warned, however, this is a WORKING machine shop. There is heavy equipment, exposed rotating equipment, and sharp and heavy objects everywhere, so keep a really sharp eye on the little ones, and avoid wearing loose clothing. Not trying to scare anyone, but an informed traveler is a safe traveler. Go check it out! You'll be glad you did."

"Fantastic time capsule preserved just like it was, everything left behind when they closed down the shop in the late sixties. Electrified by a single gasoline engine connected to a series of pulleys mounted to the ceiling. The fellow that showed us around was very nice and knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Two other guys were using a power hammer to shape a piece of steel, something I'd never seen before or knew existed. I grew up hanging out at my grandfather's shop, the late Honisek Tool and Die Co. and I am always into this kind of thing, but I was blown away repeatedly by the coolness. A must see, totally worth while way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Foundry attached with coal pile intact. Built in 1900 as they often were with many used machines, lots of late 1800s equipment around. Hardware store on the second floor also completely intact and fascinating. Right on the riverfront. No bathroom right at the shop but nice clean public bathroom in a little building right where you turn off the main road. Deserves ten stars!!! Thank you Mr. Young for leaving it all intact like you did and to Rivers of Steel and the historical society for preserving it."