The Blacksmiths

Children's Literature - Phyllis Kennemer

As part of the reissue of Fisher's standard reference collection about Colonial Craftsmen, this book continues to provide essential information for students studying that historic period. The book has two parts, "The History" and "The Technique." A discussion of the vast variety of ironwork that the blacksmith did and his fundamental role in the colonies appears in the first part. The second part describes the tools of the trade and the basic techniques in crafting ore into usable iron pieces and decorations. The making of charcoal for use in the hearth is also clearly described. Fisher's detailed black-and-white illustrations enable the reader to understand the full process. Significant words appear in italics throughout the text. Most of these are defined in a glossary at the back. The book also has a useful index. Part of the "Colonial Craftsmen" series. 2000 (orig.