Community Groups
"The Local Blacksmith"
By Brían Hoban, Clogher Heritage Centre
22, Jul 2013 - 22:29

Clogher Forge

The Anvil

THE VILLAGE BLACKSMITH

Clogher Environental Group are organising a local history and folklore talk entitled "The Village Blacksmith." on Wednesday, 31 July 2013 at 11 a.m. at Clogher Heritage Complex.

Staunton's Forge, Newtown, Clogher has been rebuilt from a ruin by our local FÁS C.E. Scheme in 1999. The site and ruin were donated by the Staunton Family of Ballyheane. The last horse to be shod was in 1960 by John Staunton of Catford until its reconstruction when it opened fully operational in 2001.

It contains many original tools and though many were donated old forges were scoured resulting in the acquisition of the prized bellows, which can be seen in situ. The bellows was a very important part of the Smiths' equipment as was his anvil. The anvil is an original piece of equipment. The forge is fairly simply laid out. The fire being set on a raised hearth made from five or six flagstones with the draught for the fire being provided by a large bellows.

Come along and hear of the role of the village blacksmith and the traditions and folklore associated with the trade of the local blacksmith.

There will be an opportunity to visit Village Forge and Heritage Cottage afterwards. There will be a cover charge of €5 (This includes a visit to the Forge, Thatched Cottage and tea/coffee.)

Contact info:
Tel: 094 9360891 
Web: www.clogherheritage.com
Email: clogherenvigroup@eircom.net