The Barkhamsted Historical Society in cooperation with the Colebrook Historical Society is actively seeking volunteers who are interested in working on an archaeological dig. The Revolutionary War era Richard Smith forge is of significant historical value because of its role during the Revolutionary War. The forge, built in 1771, was one of the first in the Colonies to produce steel. Steel was used to produce drill bits capable of drilling the barrels of canons used during the war. Production of steel was a British secret which Richard Smith carried with him from England. Iron was also produced at the forge.
The dig is being led under the direction of archaeologist Marc Banks and is being cooperatively financed by Barkhamsted Historical Society, The Colebrook Historical Society, The Colebrook Land Conservancy, and The Farmington River Coordinating Committee. The site is located just over the Barkhamsted line in Colebrook. The project is dedicated to the memory of Walt Landgraf.
If you are interested in participating please contact rich@barkhamstedhistory.org for dates and times.
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