[TheForge] -time line Was--> Stupid comments

[Ralph]

>
>Ok when did hand crank blowers come in?

If I remember correctly..... (big if)  around mid 1800's, but did not 
become wide spread until after the Civil War


>When did the smiths start using coal in place of charcoal in the IN., IL.,
>and WI. area?

What! Y'all have fire!?   <grin>


>and what would the "power hammers" of the about 1850 look like.

Unless you were near a river or stream I would say that the pwr hammer 
would look like your biggest apprentice. <smile>


>Working in a smithy that is should to be an 1850's shop with a hand crank
>blower (they did take out the electric one), 25# Little Giant(biult 1916),
>bottom blowen forge and wall mounted hand crank drill press.
>do you think every thing is period?

As for bottom blowen forges. Those are more period correct here in the USA 
for that time frame...... But I have also seen as many references for side 
blast as well.

Ralph



"Good is the enemy of Excellent. Talent is not necessary for Excellence.
Persistence is necessary for Excellence. And Persistence is a Decision."