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Knights Foundry

The last water-powered foundry in the United States — a living piece of industrial history.

Sutter Creek, Amador County (209) 560-6160 Website
Historic Tours Venue Mining Family Fun

Knights Foundry in Sutter Creek is a National Historic Landmark and the last water-powered foundry and machine shop in the United States. Built in 1873, this working museum continues to use the same water-powered turbines and belt-driven machinery to craft iron and steel. Visitors can tour the foundry floor, watch live demonstrations, and learn about the vital role foundries played in Gold Rush-era mining. The foundry also serves as a unique event venue for private gatherings surrounded by authentic industrial heritage.

Activities & Experiences

Foundry Tour

Guided tour of the water-powered foundry floor with live demonstrations of belt-driven machinery.

Saturdays 10 AM – 3 PM $15 adults · $8 children

Blacksmithing Demo

Watch skilled blacksmiths forge iron using 19th-century techniques.

Select Saturdays Included with tour

Venue & Event Space

Up to 100 guests Historic Industrial
Unique foundry backdrop
Indoor & outdoor spaces
Historic ambiance
Private events

Nearby Dining

Gold Dust Pizza · Pizza & Pub
Hotel Sutter · American

Hours & Seasons

2nd Saturday of each month

10 AM – 3 PM (docent-led demos with live forges)

4th Saturday of each month

10 AM – 2 PM (self-guided video tours)

Website

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