Workers at Harbison and Walker making refractory brick, Hays Works

Refractory or heat resistant fire bricks supplied a crucial component in the construction of steel mills. Founded as the Star Fire Brick Company in 1864, Harbison and Walker Refractories Company grew rapidly at the turn of the century, purchasing several firebrick companies in western and central Pennsylvania. Personally acquainted with the Carnegie family, Harbison and Walker’s fortunes rose along with the success of Andrew Carnegie’s steel companies.