Community gathers to celebrate renovation of 1840s smith’s forge near Birr
Building is a significant feature in the historical fabric of Killyon
ON Sunday May 17 last a ceremonial celebration of the conservation work carried out on Murphy’s Forge in Killyon took place at the forge itself. It was a lovely occasion filled with community spirit.
During the celebration pillars of the local community spoke on the history and importance of the former blacksmith’s forge.
The local priest Fr. Michael Meade blessed the space. Two young local musicians Erin Reddan and Sarah Gath entertained with their tunes, playing traditional music.
An etching created by Birr artist Andrea Moore was presented to Mick Spain, (who had been the driving force behind the event).
Ann Hanrahan was the MC; Finbarr Spain recited a poem, and local historian Brian Pey said a few words. Those who had carried out the renovation of the forge included Eamon Dooley, who had helped out in the stone work restoration; Tony Milne who had helped with slating the roof along with Mark Spain. Rachel McKenna Lyons advised the renovation team on heritage restoration. There was a good turn out of people for the event.
The story of Murphy’s Forge, the culture and the people behind the project were all discussed during the celebration.
Andrea Moore spoke about her etching of the forge. She said that in order to honour the material culture of the building she created an etching instead of a drawing. An etching is a traditional printmaking method using a metal plate to create a print. She said the labour of the artist and the blacksmith merged together through this etching, “honouring the physicality of traditional processes and metallic materials. This commission was an honour and all thanks to the community of Killyon, especially the Spain family.”
Murphy’s forge dates to around 1840. It’s a single storey structure with a galvanized roof and recent roofing timbers, random coursed stone walls with the gable towards the road and a large yellow brick arched opening with steel double doors to the west front façade. Inside, a partial cobble floor is still remaining. There’s the remains of a red brick chimney and furnace inside and some internal fittings.
According to Offaly County Council’s Record of Protected Structures, “This simple forge attests to the skill of local craftsmen. With random coursed walls contrasting with detailing in both red and yellow brick, it forms an aesthetically pleasing structure. It is a significant feature in the historical fabric of Killyon. It evokes tales of our recent past where local farmers would visit the forge on a rainy day repairing tools and equipment, forming an important meeting point within the surrounding area.”
The conservation works were carried out during 2021, and the works included stabilization of the building, pointing using lime mortar, roof repairs and replacement of the corrugated roof with natural slate.
The works were assisted by the Creative Ireland Vernacular Grant and private funding.