2026 Chester County Town Tours & Village Walks
The Schuylkill River Heritage Center is honored and delighted to participate in the 2026 Chester County Town Tours & Village Walks, with the theme of 13 Tours for 13 Colonies.
Welcome!
The Schuylkill River Heritage Center is an historic gateway to northern Chester County that provides information about places of interest to visit throughout the county. It also highlights the Schuylkill River’s resources from Pottsville to Philadelphia.
Historic artifacts and large murals showcase the industrial legacy of the Schuylkill River and the former Phoenix Iron and Steel company. Constantly running videos give visitors a comprehensive overview of the region’s resources and its history.
The Phoenix Iron Company Foundry, built in 1882, is home to the Schuylkill River Heritage Center. We are open Friday, Saturday and Sunday 11am-3pm. On First Fridays, we are also open from 5:30pm-7:30pm.
News & Events
A Brief History of the Ferris Wheel and How It Sparked America’s Imagination
Join us, as Dorothy Bedford Board President, Schuylkill River Heritage Center presents the history of this fascinating technology.
The History of Valley Forge as a National Park
Adam Gresek, Director of Visitor and Community Engagement at Valley Forge National Historical Park, will present the History of Valley Forge as a National Park.
The Phoenix Wheel, the oldest Ferris wheel in existence.
Honor a friend or family member by purchasing an engraved brick to be placed at the Wheel site. Contributions will help support our efforts to construct this historic display.
Discover the Foundry’s History
Learn the history of the Foundry building and its place in Phoenixville since 1882.
Explore the Past Along the River
Travel the Schuylkill River and explore scenes from its industrial past, learn how the river plays an important role in the development of the area.
Historical Significance
Samuel Reeves’ designs for the Phoenix Column Tower (the Centennial Tower) became the inspiration for the Eiffel Tower in Paris.