Restoration of one of the historical Saylor Kilns in Coplay has now been completed, taking more than six months of intricate workmanship and $430,000. The next chapter for the remaining cement kilns will depend on sources of funding that could be made available and what public support the project can generate.

Lehigh County Director of General Services Rick Molchany is a staunch advocate for the project to succeed — but also is a realist. He knows the road to recovery for the eight remaining vertical brick kilns will not happen in the short run; various methods to propel the further restoration of the kilns can take time.

Molchany said the project will likely be showcased with a kiosk or other permanent stand detailing the history of the kilns.

Further, Molchany said illuminating the kilns at nightfall is under consideration. Several years ago, the kilns were basked in light when special events were held.

“I will meet with the people of Coplay and its leaders,” Molchany said, adding such a forum would be held at borough hall sometime in 2017.

The cement industry both regionally and nationally could be a source of funding, since the kilns represent the only Schoeffer kilns in the United States.

Foundations, philanthropic organizations and grants also could be possible sources of funding for the kilns.

The funding for the first kiln restoration, which involved interior steel work, brick restoration and capping, came from grant funding Lehigh County had in escrow for the project.

There were initially 10 kilns constructed in 1892 and used until 1904. The continuous-firing vertical kilns initially stood 90 feet tall.

The mill was demolished for scrap in 1950.