From billhooks to motorbikes!

From billhooks to motorbikes! 

It appears that an old blacksmiths shop is a great place to find all sorts of odd and interesting tools and objects - some of which we aren’t even sure what their original purpose was! 

As a result of this we have decided to ask our volunteers to select their favourite objects from our collection and we will exhibiting one of these objects each month in our gallery, to hopefully shed some light on what they are and what they were used for. 

For the first month we have looked at the Devon billhook, looking at the massive selection of billhooks which were available in the 19th century and all their different uses. Other objects we will be researching include a draw knife and a poleaxe, common to some but a mystery to others. 

We will also be looking at phrases which originated throughout history from places just like Finch Foundry, so you will be able to see the grindstone which you would have to put your nose to, be able to find out the real use of a tenterhook and find out why you should be careful not to put too many irons into the fire.  

On Saturday, May 18th our Motorcycle Day returns, featuring an astounding array of motorcycles from throughout the ages to the modern day on display in our car park.  Come along and meet some friends or make some new ones.   All motorcycles welcome.  If you’d to be included, please telephone us or email finchfoundry@nationaltrust.org.uk.