Located in Frederick County, Maryland, Catoctin Furnace was built in 1775-1776 by Thomas Johnson, the first governor of Maryland.From about 1801 to 1812 the furnace was leased to the partners Benjamin Blackford and Thomas Thornburgh. The Maryland partnership of Blackford and Thornburgh was apparently highly successful with the younger Blackford as manager.Today Catoctin Furnace is part of Cunningham Falls State Park and a recently restored historic site. Fireback by J. Del Conner. Cast Iron, Made by hand in the USA. Dimensions 22 5/8 wide, 21 3/4 high, 66 pounds. First introduced in 1993. The Catoctin Furnace fireback is just over one inch thick at its widest point on the border. When you first remove your Fireback from its box, examine it carefully for cracks or other damage. Minor imperfections sand holes, inclusions, dimensional differences are inherent in the casting process. The fireback has been dipped in a water base paint to prevent rust during transportation. This finish is not intended for display. Paint bubbles, bare spots and streaks will wear off with use or can be removed with a wire brush or steel wool.