James W. Wilson, The Mossy Creek Iron Works, 1994

Containers:
Box 5, Folder 21
Creator:
Wilson, James W.
Scope and content:

Describes the founding and operation of the Mossy Creek Iron Works, in Augusta County, Virginia. The mill was built in the mid-1770s by Henry Miller and his partner, Mark Bird. Discusses the variety of iron products produced by the mill, as well as ancillary commodities produced by Miller on the property. In addition to pig and bar iron, Miller's facilities also produced specialty steel, charcoal, paper, flour, beef, and a variety of animal products. Describes financial transactions with customers, such as James Madison, then a colonel in the Orange County militia, and several lawsuits involving Miller and his neighbors. Mentions Millers use of slaves and indentured servants as laborers, and briefly mentions his father's and sons' involvement in the business.

Access and use

Location of collection:
James Madison University
Second Floor Room 203, MSC 1704
Carrier Library
James Madison University
880 Madison Drive
Harrisonburg, VA 22807
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Tiffany Cole
Phone: (540) 568-3444
Phone: (540) 568-3612
Fax: (540) 568-3405
Parent restrictions:
Collection is open for research. Researchers must register and agree to copyright and privacy laws before using this collection. Please contact Research Services staff before visiting the James Madison University Special Collections Library to use this collection.
Parent terms of access:
The copyright interests in this collection have not been transferred to the James Madison University Special Collections Library. The authors retain the copyrights on their papers. The user is responsible to obtain clearance from the copyright holder for permission to use any materials in excess of fair use.For more information, contact the Special Collections Library Reference Desk (library-special@jmu.edu).