Chain Bridge Forge, Spalding facts for kids
The Chain Bridge Forge is an old blacksmith's workshop from the early 1800s. It is located on High Street in Spalding, Lincolnshire, England. This historic building sits on the south bank of the River Welland.
Today, the forge has been turned into a lively museum. Visitors can explore Spalding's past, learn about blacksmithing, and discover the history of the forge. The museum offers displays, guides, and videos to help you learn. You can even try blacksmithing yourself, watch live demonstrations, and buy cool iron items made there.
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What is Chain Bridge Forge?
The Chain Bridge Forge was built specifically as a blacksmith's workshop. This happened in the first half of the 19th century. Francis South was the first owner and operator of the forge.
How the Forge Got Its Name
The forge gets its name from a footbridge right next to it. This bridge crosses the River Welland. The original bridge was made of chains. Old paintings show it was a drawbridge. This type of bridge could open to let boats and barges pass through. They would travel up the river from the Wash.
A Busy Port and Blacksmith
Spalding was a busy port during that time. The blacksmith at Chain Bridge Forge helped service the boats. Records from 1850 to 1860 show the forge was very active. It played an important role in the local shipping industry.
The Dodd Family Era
In 1899, the Chain Bridge Forge was bought by George Dodd. His family owned and ran the forge for three generations. During this time, the blacksmiths mainly helped the local community. They would shoe horses and fix farm equipment.
Adapting to Change
As the 20th century went on, the need for blacksmiths slowly decreased. Geoffery Dodd, George Dodd's grandson, adapted to these changes. He spent much of his career designing and building frames for floats. These floats were used in Spalding's famous Flower Parade.
Saving the Forge
By the 1980s, Geoffery Dodd was getting ready to retire. The forge building was in poor condition. He contacted the South Holland District Council for help. After two years of talks, the council bought the site from him. They paid a small fee of just £1 on September 20, 1988.
Restoration Efforts
The building was restored in 1991. English Heritage helped with the project. Local builders, R. G. Sharman, did the work for the District Council. This saved the historic forge from falling apart.
The Forge as a Museum
In 2011, a group called the "Friends of Chain Bridge Forge" was formed. Their goal was to turn the forge into a museum and heritage center. They started a campaign to make people aware of the building and their project.
Opening to the Public
With help from the South Holland District Council, the Friends opened the forge to the public. This happened during the Spalding Flower Parade in 2011. The council still owns and manages the property today. The forge continues to be a valuable part of Spalding's history.
