Troublesome Creek

Constructed by William Patrick in 1770, Troublesome Iron Works—also known as Speedwell Furnace—played a significant role during the Revolutionary War. In 1781, both American and British forces camped at the site during the tense days leading up to the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Following the battle, the Ironworks served as a key defensive and rallying point for General Nathanael Greene’s Southern Army, taking advantage of the area’s natural terrain. Officers from General Cornwallis’ army quartered at the Polly Scott Inn, a hostelry that stood near the Troublesome Iron Works.

Nearly a decade later, on June 3, 1791, President George Washington visited the Ironworks during his Southern Tour while traveling to the residence of Governor Alexander Martin.*See the North Carolina Highway Historical marker commemorating the Revolutionary War activities, which took place nearby.​Accessibility Overview: Troublesome Creek / Troublesome Iron Works has little to no designated parking, and the site is currently undeveloped and not open to the public. There are no formal access points, trails, or visitor amenities. Visitors should not expect maintained paths or accessible infrastructure.