The blacksmith plays an important role in the smooth running of a mine. He is responsible for maintaining equipment as well as making and mending tools. One of the main tasks is the sharpening of pick axe blades, when blunt picks are brought up by miners at the end of the day to be re-sharpened. The blacksmith also fits new handles to tools.
By controlling the airflow into the Forge fire, iron work can be heated to the different temperatures required for each job, once heated the hot metal is lifted out using Tongs and carried over to the Anvil where it is hammered into shape. The ironwork might need to be heated and beaten many times before it is the right shape.
Next to the forge is a tank of water called a ‘Bosh,’ into which the shaped hot metal can be plunged to cool or Quenched to give it the hardness suitable for its task. Sometimes the hot iron work is plunged into oil or brine, to give the iron different hardnesses.
The blacksmith at Clearwell Caves, is Gareth Thomas, who trained at Holme Lacy blacksmithing college in Herefordshire. Gareth can be seen most days, including many weekends, demonstrating his work and explaining the blacksmiths art. Most of his work is created by means of traditional techniques, hot forging, fire welding, collaring, and riveting, although modern cutting and welding methods are used for day to day tasks.
Along with maintaining mine equipment, Gareth undertakes commissioned work and is happy to discuss ironwork with visitors, one of his interests is the restoration and reproduction of ancient and old tools, which he sells from the forge; he enjoys seeing them fit for purpose once more. Gareth makes a varied range of ironwork such as gates, railings, architectural work, traditional door and window furniture, candle holders, fire irons etc, if you have some iron work in mind give him a call.
You can contact Gareth through Clearwell Caves or call him direct on 0781 781250.