Kirkstall forge

A hammer at Kirkstall Forge

Kirkstall Forge Engineering was a metalworking business based near Kirkstall, in Yorkshire.

The history of the forge can be dated to a 12th-century (1151 A.D.) millrace which powered a corn mill for the monks of Kirkstall Abbey. Iron production began in the 16th century, making it the oldest forge in England.[1]

In the 19th century, as well as ironforging, the business produced axles for horse-drawn vehicles. As motor vehicles became more common, in the early 20th century, the forge specialised in motor vehicle axles and in steel bar. During the First World War, forging was stopped, allowing the business to concentrate on axle production. During the Second World War, production expanded to meet the demand for military vehicles, and the site was camouflaged to reduce the risk of bombing raids.[2]

During WWII, many bombing raids were carried out along the Aire Valley, and while none of the 'Forge' buildings were destroyed, having been patched up with a somewhat 'keep calm and carry on' attitude, some bore the scars for many years to come.

In 1964, Kirkstall Forge bought the Regent Axle company based in Burnley to expand its gear machining capabilities. In 1974, Kirkstall Forge Engineering was bought by GKN.[3]

In 1995 the business was taken over by the Dana corporation (Dana Spicer Europe Ltd), whom over the following 6 years, transferred production overseas, and closed the works. Making some 1500 staff redundant. Some important old buildings and historic machines escaped destruction, but may be destined for 'demolition by neglect'. As an engineering works, it is now closed. It is however under redevelopment, with a railway station and offices currently occupying just a fraction of the site area.

References

  1. ↑ Butler (1954). The History of Kirkstall Forge Through Seven Centuries, 1200-1954 A.D.: The Story of Englands̓ Oldest Ironworks. ISBN 9780900657337.
  2. ↑ "The Changing Face of Kirkstall Forge's Industry during the Early Twentieth century" (PDF). Retrieved 1 July 2013.
  3. ↑ "Kirkstall Forge Engineering". Retrieved 1 July 2013.
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