Powered by History.

Forging a Better Future.

Transforming the historic birthplace of America’s defense industry into an enduring legacy of archaeological wonder, environmental stewardship, and civic inspiration on the shores of the Rappahannock River.

Join Our Mission

Keep History and America's Story Alive!

Honor the Past — Immerse yourself in the rich history of America’s largest 18th-century iron and gun manufacturer, and uncover the extraordinary individuals who contributed to its success. Help us amplify its crucial role in securing the Patriots’ victory during the Revolutionary War and its lasting impact on our nation’s quest for freedom.
Protect the Future — Champion the preservation of a cherished historical site and a vulnerable riverfront landscape. Your investment is essential in safeguarding the cultural and ecological treasures at risk from encroachment and destruction.
Forge a Legacy — Support transformative educational programs, ecological stewardship, living history events, and a heritage center that benefit our community today and inspire future generations. Together, we can make a real difference!

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The Historic Site Worth Protecting

Hunter’s Iron Works and Rappahannock Forge is more than a forty-acre historic landmark. It offers an extraordinary opportunity to discover America’s industrial beginnings, the birthplace of the nation’s defense industry, and the many people who shaped it.

Our primary mission is to preserve, interpret, and showcase this iconic site and its vast archaeological footprint, ensuring public access and an unforgettable visitor experience.

Through our restoration efforts, we honor Revolutionary War hero James Hunter and the Quakers, managers, craftsmen, and enslaved persons who built and operated the largest iron and gun manufacturing center in 18th-century North America. Their work was crucial in supplying weapons for America’s Continental Troops. It is time for Hunter’s Iron Works and Rappahannock Forge to receive the recognition they deserve for their pivotal role in securing victory in the Revolutionary War. James Hunter's unwavering sacrifices for liberty and justice are a story worth elevating for the civic lessons it offers.

Historical and Archaeological Discovery

Supporting research and exploration to uncover the site’s hidden history.

Land Conservation

Protecting the historic landscape and its natural features for future generations.

Education and Engagement

Connecting communities with the site’s history and legacy through meaningful educational programs.

The work continues. The discoveries await.

Help us protect this remarkable historic site, preserve its cultural and natural resources, and unlock its potential for research, education, and future generations.

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History Happening

Hunter’s Iron Works Featured for the First Time in Encyclopedia Virginia

A significant milestone in preserving and sharing the history of Hunter’s Iron Works, one of the most important industrial facilities of the American Revolution. Another important milestone in our mission to preserve and elevate the history of Hunter’s Iron Works has become a reality. For the first time, Hunter’s Iron Works has been published in Encyclopedia Virginia, bringing the story of this remarkable historic site to a wider audience of researchers, educators, students,

James Hunter Featured in History of Heroes Podcast

Norm Voss Features James Hunter in New History of Heroes Podcast Episode

A local history presentation and the inaugural Revolution on the Rappahannock event helped inspire a new episode celebrating the legacy of James Hunter and Hunter’s Iron Works. An important part of preserving history is making sure the stories of the people who shaped it continue to reach new audiences. A recent episode of the History of Heroes podcast does just that, bringing renewed attention to James Hunter, the patriot behind Hunter’s Iron Works in Stafford County, Virgin

Plaid to the Bone 10K: Celebrating Heritage, Community, and Competition

Relive the Plaid to the Bone 10K, celebrating Scottish heritage, community, and friendly competition at Revolution on the Rappahannock.