Office de Tourisme de Cernay, The path of the Erzenbach iron mines

The pathof the Erzenbach iron mines
The path of the Erzenbach iron mines: seeking the iron ore. By following this pathway the visitor will get a line of the most interesting mining work done in the glen to find iron during the 18th, 19th and 20th century. Three major veins were exploited: - The “Herrenstube” vein - the “Kessel” vein - the vein so called „du bois d’Uffholtz“ Those veins are found in volcano- sedimentary 350 million years old grounds and are extended on the territories of the surrounding towns. Due to the chemical composition of the ore, the absence of phosphorus, and the fullness in manganese this iron ore was much sought for the industry since it produced a more tough iron easier to work on. The main part of the mine was exploited during the 18th century before the Revolution. The local production was providing the region of Maseveaux. The work was taken over between 1815 and 1835. The very minor production was sent to the blast furnace in Bitschwiller les Thann. Major work was done between 1892 and 1904 when Alsace had been annexed to the German Empire. The mining would take over after the First World War.
	Practical information: The path of the Erzenbach iron mines is a 2 hours long marked pathway with explanation boards which will lead you to the Erzenbach waterfall. To come back you will cross the wild glen of the Kenttental where you may have the chance to see some deers and chamois.