The sound of a hammer tapping on the anvil drifts out into the street and invites you to step back to a time when the blacksmith was the ‘king of trades.’ Watch the bellows fuel the fire as the smithy works at the forge to craft red hot metal in to useful and artistic objects.

This working museum is a testament to what was once an essential trade in village life. Established on the present site in 1876 by the Doddridge family, it was a place of ideas and work. Young and old alike would come to witness the expertise and listen to the stories of the blacksmith. This special place is an extraordinary example of the ingenuity and commitment of a bygone era.

The forge has survived war, depression and countless technological revolutions to stand today as one of the few remaining main street smithies in Australia. The building captures the essence of life through three generations of Doddridge endeavour.

Each weekend volunteers of the Angaston and Penrice Historical Society demonstrate the art of blacksmithing and guide you through three rooms of memorabilia. They look forward to showcasing their skills and knowledge to visitors from all over the world. This is a wonderful, immersive experience for the whole family.

Open Saturdays & Sundays and public holidays. Tours by arrangement.