The Metal That Built Britain: A Brief History of Iron

The Early Days: Iron in Ancient Britain

The discovery of iron was a significant milestone in Ancient Britain that occurred around 800 BC (in a period we now know as The Iron Age). Ancient Britons learned how to extract iron from ores and forge it into tools and weapons, replacing bronze – an alloy that required tin and copper. Iron - unlike bronze - was a lot more durable and readily available in Britain’s soil. Iron began to be used throughout various aspects of life including farming and warfare to create stronger and more efficient tools and weapons.

Early ironworking techniques involved a simple furnace where iron ore was heated with charcoal and hammered to remove impurities and produce workable metal tools. Iron transformed society, as robust ploughs made farming more efficient, iron-tipped spears and swords were created for use in conflicts and defence and axes and knives were used for everyday tasks. 

Roman Influence: Iron in Roman Britain

The Romans invaded Britain in AD 43 and strongly influenced how iron was used in Britain, introducing advanced ironworking techniques to improve iron production efficiency. A simple furnace was upgraded to a blast furnace, which reached higher temperatures and created larger quantities of iron. Water power was used to drive bellows, improving airflow and the quality of the smelted iron.

Examples:

• Roads – Iron-tipped picks and shovels were essential for building these durable and well-engineered roads
• Buildings – Iron nails, clamps, and fittings were commonly used in constructing buildings, fortifications, and aqueducts.
• Tools and Weapons – Domestic use – iron knives, chisels, and agricultural tools. Defence and Conflict – iron swords, spearheads, and armour

Mediaeval and Tudor Times: Iron’s Expansion

During the mediaeval period (5th – 15th centuries), iron production, i.e. smelting (extracting iron from iron ore) was refined even further due to increased demand. Water-powered hammers, or trip hammers and blast furnaces helped boost iron production. 

Iron was heavily used in castle construction, mainly for structural and defence purposes, like creating robust gates and reinforcing elements for stone walls. Iron nails, hinges, and locks were essential components of castle architecture. In weaponry, iron continued to be used for making swords, spears, armour, and arrowheads.

The Tudor period (1485 – 1603) saw more progress in iron production and usage. More blast furnaces were created and smelting was used to produce coke - a fuel that left behind pure iron. Iron became more widely available and affordable, so ironwork became more prominent. 

Examples: 

• Structural Support – grand Tudor houses and public buildings
• Decorative Ironwork – gates, railings, and window grilles showcased intricate designs and craftsmanship
• Daily Life – household items and tools like iron pots, pans and utensils in kitchens
• Farming – ploughs, sickles, and hoes had improvements in design and durability to improve farming productivity

The Industrial Revolution: Iron as a Catalyst

The Industrial Revolution (late 18th – early 19th centuries) saw the use of iron expand even further. The blast furnace, steam engine and coke-fuelled smelting revolutionised ironmaking to make iron more accessible and affordable. 

Abraham Darby perfected the use of coke in blast furnaces in the early 18th century, and Henry Cort developed the puddling process in 1784 significantly increasing iron production and quality.

Examples: 

• Construction –  Iron bridges proved how strong iron could be
• Rail – Iron used for the train tracks and building trains
• Steam Engines – Made with iron components powered by factories and mines, to drive industrial productivity
• Daily Life – Stoves and cookware made from iron became more common

Victorian Era: The Pinnacle of Iron Architecture

The Victorian Era (1837 – 1901) was the golden age of iron architecture and engineering as the Bessemer process allowed for the mass production of steel inexpensively. 

Examples: 

• Structures – The Crystal Palace, constructed for the Great Exhibition in 1851 features a vast iron and glass design for structure and aesthetic
• Rail – As rail expanded as a method of transport, the St Pancras Railway Station was built in 1868 in London with grand iron features
• Daily Life – Cast iron became popular for household items including fireplaces, bathtubs and decorative railings
• Ornate Ironwork –  Public buildings, parks, and private homes, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and design

Iron in Britain Today

Today, in Britain iron and its alloy, steel, remain essential in construction and manufacturing. Modern ironworking techniques have evolved, with advanced methods like electric arc furnaces and continuous casting processes improving efficiency and sustainability.

Heritage is blended with innovation as seen during the process of restoring historical buildings with traditional ironworking techniques to preserve historical integrity. 

Contemporary ironmongers also embrace modern technology. Computer-aided design (CAD) and advanced manufacturing techniques allow intricate and precise ironwork. Sustainability in ironwork is also in place today: scrap iron is recycled and energy-efficient production methods are also used.  

Examples: 

• Construction – The Shard (2012) utilised steel frameworks to achieve impressive heights and designs.
• Rail – Infrastructure projects like the Elizabeth Line in London relied heavily on steel for tunnels and railway tracks
• Manufacturing – Iron and steel are critical for producing automobiles, machinery, and appliances

Could Iron Become Extinct? 

The journey of iron from the Industrial Revolution to modern times showcases its value in society. Advancements in production techniques and diverse applications have solidified iron’s role as a cornerstone of Britain’s industrial and architectural achievements.

Even today, Iron remains integral to Britain’s architectural and industrial landscape, iron continues to shape Britain’s built environment and cultural heritage, by preserving historical structures and transforming modern designs. 

For more information on The Metal That Built Britain: A Brief History of Iron talk to G Johns & Sons Ltd (Architectural Ironmongery)