Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is a deep spring with a rich blue color for most of the year. The Blue Hole is located on the south end of the riding area. Riders love this stop due to the peaceful scenery, cool water and proximity to several historic sites.
While there, you may notice shiny blue rocks scattered along the ground. These are not actually rocks, but slag from the Laura Iron Furnace. It ceased operations more than 100 years ago and left a permanent mark on the landscape. Please leave the slag (blue rocks) behind for others to enjoy. These “rocks” are historic, dating back to the late 1800’s and they are a protected part of history.
Laura Furnace
At Laura Furnace you will notice blue slag covering the forest floor. This slag is a by-product of iron ore production which helped the area prosper during the mid-1800s, but significantly impacted the environment. While at Laura Furnace, you will see large stones from the furnace structure, now just a shell of what it once was. In 1880, the furnace was shuttered for good, but you will still notice the difference in the forest through the area as it is still recovering from overuse.
Little Drummer Boy
Nathan Futrell is believed to be the youngest drummer boy in the Revolutionary War at only seven years old. During your stop. you will find a plaque erected The Daughters of the American Revolution in honor of Futrell’s war contributions. Please leave your horse tethered before you enter the cemetery.
Please do not disturb these historic area, and remember to watch for potential dangers like old wells and cisterns.
