Edgar Thomson Steel Works: A Historic Legacy of Steel Production

Steel has played a vital role in shaping the industrial landscape of the United States, and one of the most iconic steel mills in the country is the Edgar Thomson Steel Works. Established in 1875 by Andrew Carnegie, this historic steel mill has a rich history and has been a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh area for over a century. In this article, we will explore the fascinating story of Edgar Thomson Steel Works, from its humble beginnings to its status as the last remaining basic steel mill in Pennsylvania.

A Legacy Begins: The Birth of Edgar Thomson Steel Works

In the late 19th century, Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish-American industrialist, recognized the potential of the Bessemer process, a revolutionary method for mass-producing steel. Inspired by this innovation, Carnegie set out to build his own Bessemer plant, which would later be known as Edgar Thomson Steel Works. The mill was named after J. Edgar Thomson, the president of the Pennsylvania Railroad, a key customer for the steel produced at the mill.

The Rise of Edgar Thomson Steel Works

Construction of the Steel Works began in 1873 in Braddock Township, Pennsylvania. The strategic location of the mill, situated on the banks of the Monongahela River, provided convenient transportation for the shipment of coke, iron, and finished steel products. The mill’s first heat of liquid steel was produced on August 22, 1875, and within a year, it was able to produce an impressive 32,228 tons of steel rail for the Pennsylvania Railroad.

A Powerhouse of Steel Production

The industrial complex quickly gained a reputation as the most powerful rail mill in the country. The mill’s capabilities were remarkable, with notable productions such as a 62 lb. rail 120 feet long, rolled in just five minutes, and 600 rails weighing 56 lb. per yard, rolled in a mere 11 1/2 hours. As production continued to improve, the mill reached a capacity of 225 tons of steel rails per day.

The Homestead Strike and its Impact

In 1892, Edgar Thomson Steel Works faced one of the most significant challenges in its history, the Homestead Strike. The strike erupted when Henry Clay Frick, an associate of Carnegie, attempted to cut the wages of steelworkers. This led to a shutdown of the mill as workers from Edgar Thomson and other mills joined the strike. The situation escalated, resulting in a riot and the intervention of the governor to restore peace. Despite this setback, the mill resumed operations with non-union immigrant workers.

Challenges and Adaptations

Over the years, the Steel Works faced various challenges, including economic downturns and changes in the steel industry. However, the mill survived while other iconic steel plants in the region closed their doors. In the 1980s, the steel industry experienced a significant collapse, but Edgar Thomson persisted as the last remaining integrated mill in the Mon Valley. U.S. Steel, the current owner of the mill, continued to invest in its operations, including a $250 million investment in a continuous caster in 1992.

The Environmental Concerns

While Edgar Thomson Steel Works has overcome numerous challenges throughout its history, it currently faces a new obstacle – environmental concerns. The lack of functional air pollution controls has put the mill’s future at risk. In recent years, U.S. Steel considered investing in the mill but reversed its decision, citing the need to meet carbon emission targets by 2050. This uncertainty raises questions about the future of Edgar Thomson and its role in the steel industry.

A Lasting Legacy

Despite the uncertainties surrounding its future, this landmark has left an indelible mark on the history of steel production in the United States. For over a century, the mill has provided employment opportunities for generations of families in the Pittsburgh area. Its contributions to the growth and development of the steel industry cannot be overstated.

Edgar Thomson Steel Works stands as a testament to the ingenuity, resilience, and legacy of Andrew Carnegie. From its humble beginnings as a Bessemer plant to its status as the last remaining basic steel mill in Pennsylvania, the mill has played a vital role in shaping the industrial landscape of the United States. While its future may be uncertain, the history and impact of Edgar Thomson Steel Works will forever be etched in the annals of American steel production.