Hand Forged Hardware

Following in the footsteps of colonial settlers, a family tradition of blacksmithing started around 1900 and continues today at Early New England Homes by Country Carpenters. Fred Brehant served as the blacksmith for the town of Hebron in those days before passing his trade on to his son.

Serving as our very own village blacksmith for decades, Fred Brehant Jr. truly embodied the Early American spirit in the traditions and craftsmanship of past generations. His son, Fred III (Freddy), also continues to hand forge various hardware to add an authentic touch to every Early New England home.

The blacksmithing process begins with steel flat stock sourced from local suppliers. Using a power shear, Freddy cuts the steel to the lengths needed to forge the hardware. The stock is then heated in a coal forge, which Freddy says grants more control over the temperature and the atmosphere than a gas forge.

Utilizing many of the tools that his grandfather used in his shop, such as the forge, anvil, hammers, and tongs, he then shapes the stock using various old–world techniques. This includes drawing out, upsetting, and bending, just like the colonial blacksmiths who made the original hardware for their barns hundreds of years ago.

Freddy takes pride in his work and strives for authenticity in each piece. Our hand forged hardware combines functionality and art, capturing the spirit and character of old New England. The history behind these tools and techniques also adds to the essence of our mission to remain true to the early New England style. Call us to learn more about our hand forged hardware, from hinges to latches and fireplace elements, or other kit home options.