09/15/2026
🏭 Steel Mill Modelers Visit Leetonia!
Yesterday, the Steel Mill Modelers Special Interest Group stopped in Leetonia to visit the historic Cherry Valley Beehive Coke Ovens! (Leetonia Beehive Coke Ovens)
The SMMSIG is an NMRA Special Interest Group made up of model railroaders and steel-industry enthusiasts who share an interest in researching, documenting, and modeling steel mills, coke plants, and the railroads that supported them.
Their visit to Leetonia was a great opportunity to connect their interest in steel-industry modeling with the real history of the coal, coke, and steel industry right here in our community.
Mayor Kevin Siembida gave the group a tour of the coke ovens and shared the story of Leetonia’s industrial past, including the important role the ovens played in producing coke for the region’s growing iron and steel industry.
We’re always happy to welcome visitors who appreciate the history behind these unique structures — and who understand that sometimes the best way to learn about a steel mill is to see where the story actually began! 🔥🏭
Thank you to the Steel Mill Modelers Special Interest Group for visiting Leetonia and taking an interest in our history. We hope to see you back in the Valley again soon!