Denise Hall: Ancient iron craft alive and thriving in West Cork

Q&A: Carmel Cronin

Not only was he the local toolmaker and engineer, he was sometimes called upon to act as doctor, dentist, undertaker, veterinary surgeon and horse dealer. Many other professions sprouted up under the umbrella of blacksmithing.

My first encounter with a blacksmith was with a legendary figure in the West Cork area, Kealkil man Eugie O’Sullivan, who has sadly passed away.