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Pit Blacksmiths

This image shows blacksmiths employed at one of Blantyre's pits. Blacksmiths or as they were known locally "smiddies" were employed to fabricate iron and steel brackets, clamps and other fixtures used throughout the mine. An obvious task (seen in the photo) they also worked on was the manufacture and fitting of horses and ponies shoes.

One of the most-enduring trades our forefathers took employment in, the increased use of cast iron and the industrial revolution in the 19th century contributed to the relegation of the art of blacksmithing to the classification of a dying art. Today most blacksmiths are employed in the manufacture of fancy ironwork or artwork.

Source: A Blast from the Past

Photo lovingly coloured by Andrew Paterson

 

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