Iron Making in the Olden Times as instanced in the Ancient Mines, Forges, and Furnaces of The Forest of Dean

Set against the rolling hills of Gloucestershire, this scholarly narrative unravels the centuries‑long relationship between the Forest of Dean and its iron industry. Drawing on medieval court records, local archives and the author’s earlier works, it paints a vivid picture of the “free miners” who carved vast, cathedral‑sized caverns and narrow stone passages without modern tools or gunpowder. Readers are guided through the evolution of these primitive mines, the natural ventilation that kept the air fresh, and the rugged ingenuity that sustained early iron extraction.

The book also explores the revival of iron works in the nineteenth century, showing how renewed activity reshaped the region’s economy and landscape. Detailed descriptions of ancient forges and furnaces bring the craft’s technology to life, while anecdotes from contemporary observers add a personal touch. By the end of the first act, listeners will have a solid grasp of the Forest’s deep‑rooted metallurgical heritage and its enduring influence on both local community and industrial history.