With origins tracing as far back as 1500 BC, blacksmithing is a truly timeless process, offering centuries of tools, weaponry and art since its very conception. Initially, the art of blacksmithing was developed when iron ore was discovered to create useful tools that were far more effective and robust than their stone counterparts. Later, during the medieval period, blacksmiths became a staple in every town or village, with forges forming an integral part of communities within Western culture. The village blacksmith became a household name and was responsible for creating various tools, domestic items, and weapons.
Bringing machinery, advancing technology and the opportunity to reduce labour-intensive work with it, the industrial revolution caused the need for blacksmiths to significantly reduce, leaving many of them to pursue other careers. Although demand was low, blacksmithing still remained a prominent craft within society and, when the turn of 20th century came about, blacksmith’s popularity increased again as they began creating more architectural ironwork. A lot of this work can still be seen throughout the UK, such as the famous Iron Bridge in Shropshire which conveniently borders our site in Oswestry.
Following the Great Depression, blacksmithing again lost its spark as an artform, with modern machinery offering a far more cost-effective way to produce iron items. However, in the 70s a love for the craft resurfaced, with many people taking up blacksmithing as a hobby. Since, the historical technique has only gained further interest. Blacksmiths, although not as widely found as they were in the medieval era, can now be found all across the country, with more and more people learning the craft every day.
From elegant door furniture to classically designed interior features, modern blacksmith items still draw from the rich heritage of ironmongery but now remain in-line with 21st century trends with their more contemporary touches. Whether you’ve always had an interest in the craft or you’re just someone who loves to make things, blacksmithing is an exciting and truly unique way to get creative and experience one of the longest-established crafts known to man.
