Opened by the Brandywine Iron Works and Nail Factory, later known as Lukens Steel, in 1810, Coatesville Steel Mill helped shape the backbone of the nation’s infrastructure and shipbuilding, according to a staff report from United Steelworkers.
The mill, now owned by Cleveland-Cliffs, contributed to America’s first iron-hull sea vessel and manufactured steel for some of the most famous structures in the country, including the World Trade Center and its replacement.
“Our steel is in infrastructure in every major city in this country,” said Fred Grumbine, vice president of Local 1165, which represents workers at the mill.
Grumbine added that after the World Trade Center’s twin towers collapsed on Sept. 11, 2001, the only things left standing were the structural steel supports, known as “trees.” These massive steel beams were forged by USW members in 1969 and returned to Coatesville on a procession of flatbed trucks 32 years later.
“It was a great tribute,” said Bill Sharp III, former Local 1165 president. “Steelworkers were proud to see that our product was still standing.”
The steel beams are now on display at the National Iron and Steel Heritage Museum which is located near to the plant.
Read more about Lukens Steel helping shape the backbone of infrastructure in the US at United Steelworkers.
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Editor’s Note: This post first appeared on VISTA Today in March 2025.
