Historical information

This article by James Lerk provides a historical overview of blacksmithing in Bendigo, focusing on Thomas Pearce's life and contributions:

Blacksmiths worked with iron and steel, shaping metal using heat, anvils, and various tools to create both practical and decorative items. The process involved heating metal to a bright cherry red and shaping it on an anvil, which included features like a flat table and a horn for different shaping needs.

Thomas Pearce was born in Cornwall in 1850, the son of a blacksmith, and married Mary Sobey in 1871. He also ran the Five Pilchards Inn, according to the Cornish Census.

Like many Cornish people in the late 19th century, Pearce migrated for mining opportunities, arriving in Bendigo in 1889. Pearce worked as a blacksmith at various mines in Bendigo upon arrival.In 1898, he became the blacksmith at Fortuna, a prominent estate owned by George Lansell.

Pearce is best known for creating the ornate iron entry gates at Fortuna, showcasing his skill and creativity.It is noted that he began crafting the gates without formal drawings, relying on his vision and expertise.

Pearce retired from Fortuna in 1923 at age 73.He and his wife celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary in 1931, marking a long and accomplished life.

Physical description

Fortuna Articles - "Ironwork to test the mettle" Sept 25 2009 The Bendigo Weekly Discover Bendigo by James Lerk

This item contains the following:

11217.48a Black and white photo of the Fortuna metal gate in Chum Street

11217.48b Black and white photo of Thomas Pearce , blacksmith, in 1931 at the time of his diamond wedding

11217.48c Part of Page 18 - Fortuna Articles - "Ironwork to test the mettle"

Publication type

non-fiction