Bonawe Iron Furnace exploited the local forests for charcoal production to smelt iron ore brought into the site via Loch Etive from Lancashire and Cumberland. The site was chosen for its rich woodlands, proximity to the sea for transportation, and rivers to power the furnace.

Images:

1. James Dorret, An Accurate Map of Scotland from all the Particular Surveys (1751), accessed via National Library of Scotland
2. Argyllshire (1875), accessed via National Library of Scotland