Victorian Blacksmith

Wednesdays 10am to 4pm

In the 19th century, the blacksmith was a key figure in the local community. This skilled craftsman was central to the daily life of the Island, providing vital services to both urban and rural areas.

Meet the Victorian Blacksmith and watch him as he stokes the portable forge to get it to the right temperature for working the iron or steel, then hammers the metal as he shapes a new tool or implement or repairs an old one. These skills were highly valued and involved the blacksmith in the local economy and trade.

Blacksmiths were not just workers. They were also important figures in the community. They often provided social hubs, where local people could exchange news or ideas while waiting for their tools to be repaired or made.
In the Channel Islands, and especially in Jersey, there was a strong connection between blacksmiths and local industries. Whether it was the fishing, agricultural or shipping industries, blacksmiths were essential for keeping equipment and transport functioning and their knowledge of metalworking was passed down through the generations.

If meeting the blacksmith is going to be the highlight of your trip to Hamptonne Country Life Museum, please call +44 (0) 1534 863 955 before you visit to check that performances are confirmed for that date.