More information : NZ 080504. A late 17th century blast furnace which
survives to two-thirds height with lining intact but arches robbed
and collapsed. Remains of the leat have been plotted to the west;
above the unique remains of calcines. Currently being excavated by
Newcastle University. (1)
That a forge existed in Allensford in 1670 for the making and
working of iron is clear from documentary evidence. That it existed
until around 1730 seems clear although its furnace may not have been
in blast beyond around 1715. The excavation in 1977 proved the site
and remains of a blast furnace which was almost certainly charcoal
fired with water-powered blowing. While there is literary evidence for a bank of calciners, only one survived, its internal form being similar to late 17th/early 18th century lime kilns. (2)
NZ 080 504. Allensford blast furnace. Scheduled No ND/619. (3)
Allensford Blast furnace, on N bank of R Derwent 250 metres east of
bridge. Grade II. Remains of Blast Furnace, late C17 or early C18.
Furnace neatly-squared stone, calciner coursed stone. Furnace is
ruinous square structure with jambs and part of round arch; walls
with temporary protective concrete capping at time of survey.
Calciner, further up bank, has splayed wing walls flanking round-
headed arch into circular kiln; kiln wall standing 3 metres high in
parts. Important industrial monument, traditionally associated with
the Shotley Bridge sword makers. Last use of the charcoal-fired blast
furnace gave archaeomagnetic date of 1740+/-10. Excavations 1977/8
by Newcastle University. (4)
No changes. The furnace stack has been capped to help preservation and the kiln has been back filled and appears stable. (5)
|