The Smithy

The Blacksmith’s workshop (Smithy) was built in 1855 to provide running repairs on site and probably to shoe horses used to pull the coal, coke and anthracite wagons to the site from the nearby Merrybent rail depot. After training for many years as an apprentice, the Tees Cottage blacksmith would have worked, lived and slept in the Smithy. The work would have been hard, involving long hours in a hot and dirty environment.

The workshop still contains many of the original tools the blacksmith would have used, including an original set of bellows. The blacksmiths of today may not be required to work as hard as their predecessors but they use many of the same techniques.

TRAINING AT THE SMITHY

Experience a day working in a traditional blacksmiths shop

TCPS can offer a full day's training course which will deliver an introduction to the world of blacksmithing. The course will be hands-on, delivered by our experienced, competent, TCPS Blacksmiths, focussing on the acquisition of basic blacksmithing techniques.

It will provide an ideal introduction to blacksmithing for those not yet ready to take on longer courses or are unsure of their commitment to this hobby. For those who wish to pursue blacksmithing further, we would recommend contacting one of the local blacksmiths, for example Peat Oberon's School of Blacksmithing at Preston Hall Museum, near Stockton-on-Tees.

After an initial introduction to some of the basic skills employed by blacksmiths you will have the opportunity to make a number of items.

Training FAQs

Where will the training be held?

The training will be held in the Smithy at Tees Cottage Pumping Station. This historic building was erected in 1853 and features the original bellows.

When is the training held?

Wednesday's and most second Sundays in the month, throughout the year. Other days may also be possible, depending on the availability of the Blacksmiths.

How long will the training last?

9.00 am – 3.00 pm

How much does the training cost?

£100.00 per person for one to one, or two to two, instruction, as required.

Included in this cost is annual Membership of Tees Cottage Pumping Station, which provides free entry on Open Days. Tea and coffee will be available throughout the day.

On the day, you will make a number of items depending on how you feel. Most people should be able to make and take home at least three items, for example keyring, bottle opener, and poker. We can tailor the day to suit the requirements of each participant. After the morning session, during a 30 minute lunch break, the structure of the afternoon session can be discussed and decided.

Boots with steel toecaps, or stout shoes (walking boots), are needed, (sandals or trainers are not permitted), clothes should be of natural materials, not fleece or nylon. We will have available, leather aprons, safety glasses, rigger gloves and ear buds as required.

Upon completion of your course, you will be issued with a certificate of attendance which will state that you experienced a day working in a traditional blacksmiths shop where you acquired basic blacksmithing skills.

If you wish you will have the opportunity to step back in time by operating the 1853 bellows, while working at the anvil.

There may also be the opportunity to use a gas forge dependent on availability and weather. We can also advise on which tools and other equipment you may wish to buy if you are interested in furthering your new hobby.

Make a booking

If you are interested in attending a training course at the Smithy or require further details please contact us at:

smithy@teescottage.co.uk |or call Steve Silverwood on 07774 448 303 |or Arthur West on 07952 312 913