Former blacksmith's forge, functioning as an outbuilding to the adjacent former blacksmith's house (see MLI89168). The structure is single-storey and built of stone, and was included in a schedule of important buildings within the Hemswell Conservation Area. {1} A brief photographic survey was conducted of the former forge and the adjacent former shoeing house (see MLI126001) in July 2006, prior to proposed alterations to the two structures. The former forge was thought to date to the 19th century, being built of roughly hewn and coursed stone, with red brick detailing to the door and window openings and to one of the quoins. The pitched roof was covered with red clay pantiles, although these appeared to be relatively modern, and it was thought that the roof may have been replaced at some point in the 20th century. The building would have originally had two brick chimney stacks serving the former working forge in the western half of the building and a fireplace located towards the eastern side. Both chimney stacks had been reduced in height to below the roofline and tiled over, most likely when the roof was replaced. Although partly demolished, the brick-built forge and working area was still extant, although it had become quite ruinous by the time of survey. An iron ladder adjacent to the eastern fireplace gave access up to a small gallery area. Fragments of stone walling attached to the western elevation would suggest that the smithy complex had formerly been larger, with other outbuildings attached to the main forge structure. {2} Historic map evidence would suggest that the main forge structure was built in the early 19th century, with the surviving fabric of the structure supporting this date. The complex was originally slightly larger than what now (2021) survives, with an adjoining stone-built western room thought to have functioned as a stable or store. The complex was further enlarged at some point in the later 19th century, with the addition of a timber lean-to structure to the northern elevation. The smithy business formed part of the Harpswell Estate, and was advertised for sale in 1918. The advertisement referred to the site as the 'Blacksmith's Holding' which comprised a 'Coal House, Blacksmith's Shop, Two-stall Stable, Piggeries and Cow House for Two, Shoeing Shed, Stable and Boiling House, small Stackyard'. Whilst the location of some of these components is understood, the exact layout of the smithy complex is not completely known. The smithy business is thought to have been in operation until the mid 20th century, at which point the forge structure is thought to have been converted for use as storage. It is likely that the roof and chimney modifications were made at this point, with the western stable or store room also being largely demolished at this time. The northern timber lean-to structure is thought to have been demolished in 2002. The surviving fragments of the western rooms are thought to have been demolished in 2004, with the material likely being re-used in the construction of the new garage to the south. {3} The main forge structure is still extant, though is becoming quite ruinous, with part of the southern elevation walling having collapsed. Most of the window and door openings also appear to have been blocked. {4}