Kilmaine Forges
The Blacksmity by Charles Grant Beaugard (1856-1919)
Donor
Outside blacksmiths
Photo: Evelyn Keane
by Evelyn Keane
O’Brien’s Forge
O’Brien’s forge was situated between Dooley’s house and Lyon’s house of to-day.
Joyce’s Forge
Joyce’s forge was situated opposite where Joseph & Winifred Joyce’s house now stands.
Blacksmith services
During the years of compulsory tillage the blacksmith’s services were required by every farmer, whether it was shoeing horses, making and repairing ploughs; he made iron gates, spades shovels, bolts and screws.
Both forges were situated beside the road. Passers by would call in for a chat, others with some work for the smith. Sadly the blacksmith is no longer required.