Ruins of the Józef Steelworks in Samsonów

Samsonov's industrial traditions are very ancient. In 1598, the first bergam-type blast furnace in Poland was built here. The furnace designer was Hieronymus Caccio, a specialist from Italy. In the years 1641-44 the furnace was rebuilt and the first liquid pig iron was obtained. The present steel plant was founded on the initiative of Stanisław Staszic in the years 1818-1823. Over the following years, it was expanded and rebuilt. In the years 1821-1822, a blast furnace block, a hoisting tower, a machine hall and a casting hall were built next to the blast furnace. In 1829, as part of technical improvements, a cylindrical bellows moved by a water wheel and a steam engine were installed. The side, north and south wings were built around 1835. In 1844, 1848 and 1866 there were serious fires in the building. The last of them caused that Huta fell into ruin and was closed. "Huta Józef" worked mainly for the needs of the army. In addition, a number of construction and decorative elements were produced there. In 1967, the "Huta Jozefa" blast furnace complex was entered into the register of monuments. In the years 1981-1983, the remaining metallurgical buildings were preserved in the form of a permanent ruin and made available to visitors.