Preserving industrial heritage: local businessman Shaun Dale donates $2,000 to Eagle Iron Works and Curtin Village

By Emily Wright

HOWARD, PA – Shaun Dale, a native of Lock Haven and owner of The Old Corner Grill and Bottle Shop, has donated $2,000 to Eagle Iron Works and Curtin Village, two historical sites situated near Bald Eagle State Park.

This one-of-a-kind historical site proudly displays the history of Pennsylvania’s renowned iron industry and offers an engaging glimpse into the lives of 19th-century ironworkers. The two gems of industrial heritage are located at 251 Curtin Road south of Howard.

Eagle Iron Works was in operation for 112 years and was the last surviving charcoal-fueled iron furnace in Pennsylvania. Over the years, both the iron-making company and Curtin Village have been preserved, however, maintaining and operating these historical sites requires substantial resources and support from the community.

Dale shared with The Record one of the historical landmarks’ needs, “There’s a huge need for raising funds there, and I know they need a new roof on one of the cabins. There’s a whole little village that Curtin upkeeps,”

Curtin Village originally consisted of 28 efficiency style homes for workers to reside in. Three of the original 28 structures still stand on the property, one of which is known as the “Bryan Cottage” and is in need of a new roof.

Dale emphasized his feelings on preserving local history when asked about why he chose Eagle Iron Works and Curtin Village,

“I’m hoping to help because they need funding in general and it’s for a great cause. And, being that I grew up in this area, I didn’t know much about Curtin Village until recently. The history is absolutely amazing throughout our area right here, so it’s something that I feel people of other generations need to continue to preserve.”

Dale, who has owned The Old Corner Bar and Grill for just over a year, expressed gratitude for the local support he’s received since taking ownership, which contributed to his decision to make a donation to preserve local history.

“One of my biggest things is giving back to the community. The community supports me so much, with my street closures and my business in general. I live in this community and I face these people every day. What better way is there to help out than to give back?”

To learn more about Eagle Iron Works and Curtin Village, schedule a tour, or learn about upcoming events, visit https://www.curtinvillage.com/. After September, tours of the two sites will conclude for the season.