It's hammer time
The forge is roaring and the hammer is swinging. Watch our blacksmith at work and discover why this trade was one of the most important, and busiest, on the goldfields.
Sparks will fly, the anvil will ring, and you'll quickly realise this is no desk job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the blacksmith shop at Sovereign Hill?
The blacksmith shop is Dilge's Blacksmiths, map no. 22.
What time is the blacksmith demonstration at Sovereign Hill?
The blacksmithing demonstration runs at 11:45am and 2:00pm at Dilge's Blacksmiths (map no. 22).
What will I see at the blacksmithing demonstration?
You'll see a blacksmith at work, using the forge, hammer and anvil.
Was blacksmithing an important trade on the goldfields?
Yes. Blacksmithing was one of the most important and busiest trades on the goldfields. Because blacksmiths could work and shape metal, they were rarely short of work, whether sharpening a miner's tools or making pots and pans for the kitchen. By 1857, at least 25 blacksmiths were working across the Ballarat goldfields.
Is the blacksmithing demonstration included in my Sovereign Hill ticket?
Yes. The blacksmithing demonstration is included in your Sovereign Hill ticket.
Is the blacksmith demonstration good for kids?
Yes. The demonstration is suitable for kids and adults.
Is Sovereign Hill one of the only places in Victoria to see traditional blacksmithing?
Sovereign Hill is one of the few places in Victoria where you can watch a traditional blacksmith at work. At Dilge's Blacksmiths (map no. 22), a blacksmith uses the forge, hammer and anvil just as blacksmiths did on the goldfields in the 1850s.
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