Due to the physicality of the craft, it is usually thought that men are blacksmiths, exclusively. And while there may not be many women involved in this trade, there have been a few through history that may surprise you. Since it is the first day of Women’s History Month, it seemed fitting to share some tales of women in metalwork over the years.

Women have worked as blacksmiths for centuries. Some of the earliest accounts of this are from 800 years ago. As early as the 14th century, organizations for trades primarily dominated by men, such as blacksmith guilds, started inviting the widowed wives of craftsmen to run family businesses in their husband’s absence. Proof of the existence of female blacksmiths exists within a few documents, one of which being the Holkham Bible which includes images of women forging nails.

In the 1700s women in London were encouraged to learn a trade and take on apprentices to help them. In the mid-18th century, it wasn’t uncommon to see women forging nails. Betsy Hager was one of the notable blacksmiths of her time, known to refurbish antique muskets for soldiers.

While it is true that there are several occurrences of women in blacksmithing professions, these women were the exceptions. Most women became mothers, wives, general laborers, or married into wealth and ran households. Most women also would not choose a career in blacksmithing over the roles of mother and wife, which were considered far more socially acceptable. The women who did pursue a blacksmithing career usually did so because their fathers were smiths and they learned by helping them, especially in families with no sons. This also helped to ensure family businesses could remain running.

Today there are thousands of successful female metalworkers, no longer quite the anomaly they once were. From the UK and America, many have won awards for their exceptional work. From the middle ages to our current day, women have played a role in blacksmithing and continue to contribute to the industry.

Visit Our Website

KAMABANDSAW.COM

Contact Us @ 865-671-7682