Filled with absorbing information and countless fascinating illustrations, this history and project book takes an in-depth look at the tools and technique of the blacksmith, paying tribute to the skill and ingenuity of this versatile 19th century American craftsman. The blacksmith’s roles as a hardware maker, farrier, and village handy-man are vividly portrayed in the lively text and exceptional illustration. Informative chapters cover Wrought Iron, the Blacksmith Shop and Forge Fire, Shoeing a Horse, the Blacksmith in his world, and much more. For those who would like a forge and bellows of their own, this book will tell you how to do it, and will also prove an informative record and valuable source for all those interested in this important part of American industry.