Bluey Blundstone's Blacksmith Shop

Bluey Blundstone's Blacksmith Shop

Bluey Blundstone's Blacksmith shop was built in 1865 in Melrose, South Australia. Melrose is the oldest town in the Flinders Ranges, first settled with the discovery of copper in 1846. This is just 10 years after South Australia was proclaimed a state. For some time Melrose was the most Northerly judicial, commercial, educational, religious and postal centre, serving the huge expanse known as 'The Far North'. The substantial size, architectural style and unique double forge reflect the importance of Blueys to these local and regional activities. The entire complex has been lovingly and authentically restored with the smithy's shop now fully equipped with tools and machinery pertaining to that era. The work area alone is seven sq metres with five metre high ceilings. The thick stone walls are constantly interrupted with doorways, a window and shelving - all original. Attached and continuous to the rear of the workshop, is the family's humble pug and pine dwelling. To one side is a fully enclosed shoeing area separating the workshop from a large stable. The stable has now been incorporated into the residence. Most of the building and grounds are open to the public as a coffee shop and B&B. The present owners produce items-to-order at the forge. Public access to the coffee shop through the rear of the workshop. The property was accepted onto the State Heritage Register in 1992. The owners live on the property and are readily contacted.

Address: 
30-32 Stuart Street, Melrose, SA
Tel: 
0886662173
Hours: 
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 11am - 4pm. Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays 10am - 5pm. Closed Tuesdays
Admission: 
Nil
Facilities: 
Premises operates as a coffee shop and B & B. Brochures available, limited wheelchair access due to narrow doorways.
Collection: 
All hand tools and mechanical equipment associated with blacksmithing from 1860's onwards. A rare forge, 7' bellows, floor mandril etc. A display of items made at the blacksmith shop during that period. In the main residence, household items from that period.

Items

Blacksmith Tools

Threading Machine

Threading Machine
Creator:
Wileya Russel, Greenfield Mass. USA
Description:
Hand operated threading machine first patented in 1871

Blacksmith/ Farm Tool

Grinding Machine

Grinding Machine
Creator:
International, Chicago
Description:
Pedal operated grinding machine used to sharpen mower blades and slasher blades.

The oscillating mechanism is missing from the apparatus.

Double Forge

Creator:
Unknown
Description:
Original double forge was reconditioned about 1990 and is in use today. Chimney rebuilt at same time and electric fan incorporated below.

Forge is made of random stone and rubble with a lime mortar lining. Chimney is of red brick and is in accurate reproduction of the original.

Floor Mandril

Creator:
William Blundstone
Description:
Cast iron cone approx. 1400mm high, 450mm diam. of base 115mm at top.

Woodworking Machine

Mortising Machine

Creator:
Ezra Gould and Eberhardt, Newark N. Jersey
Description:
Foot operated Mortising machine approximately 100years old. Cast iron frame work with wooden spring mechanism