Notes on information contributed by Robert Kelly, The Cronk Smith, Ballaugh, aged over 70, interviewed by Margaret Killip
Date(s): June 1957
Scope & Content: In this document Mr Kelly describes the Cronk smithy situated at the low end of Ballaugh. It is an old building made of shore stone. The content also describes hooping; the interior of the smithy; how to light the fire; coal from Swansea; A small cabin door in the smithy is off a ship called the Agnes that came ashore on Ballaugh beach; driftwood has been used in the smithy; visitors putting nails into the bench; Shire and Clydesdale horses were used on the farms and ponies and donkeys were also shod. In the winter the farmers used to have the shoes sharpened in frosty weather. Pointing nails is mentioned and making side irons for stiff carts and the bush for the axle. The iron bars of differing thicknesses were purchased from Clague's in Ramsey. They also made a crow to put a pot on in the back-kitchen or outhouse. Pot irons that were hung from slowries in the chiellagh were made as well as fenders. The working conditions are mentioned and apprentices; Set of Swingle tress for ploughing or harrowing and chains for the swingle tree. The hours of work are mentioned and long iron for lifting rucks of lay off the ground. The old house on Ballakeig is mentioned and the old chapel at the Cronk.
Language: English
Extent: 6 pages
Item name: typescript
Collection: Manuscript Archive
Level: ITEM
ID number: FLS K/057