Old Blacksmith Shop

Old Blacksmith Shop
Old Blacksmith Shop
Old Blacksmith Shop


Live demonstrations provide a fascinating experience at this blacksmith shop, with anvils and fire pokers glowing red hot and bending to the might of the hammer.

Visit the Old Blacksmith Shop to take a trip back in time to a bygone period of 19th-century forging and hammer work. A guided tour offers insight into the workings of this blacksmithing shop, which dates back to 1897. Chat to the on-site historian about the changes and constants of the blacksmith industry.

Arrive at the red barn marked by a sign which reads “Blacksmith Shop.” A pair of redbrick chimneys and a glass cupola rise from the roof. Go on a 30-minute group tour to learn about the roles of the various tools, some of which have been in use for generations.

Watch a professional blacksmith at work, with sparks flying from the metal. The artist’s hammer helps to meld and bend the red-hot metal into recognizable instruments.

Browse the range of items sculpted by the site’s blacksmiths in the gift shop. The items often have a Galena stamp on them.

Bring your kids to the live demonstrations so they can experience the sights and sounds of an industry that came before them. The historian will tell you about the original owner of the shop, Louis C. Readel, who ran the place until his death in the early 1900s, a period when blacksmithing thrived.

The site opens from May to October, Friday through Monday. Tours are held regularly throughout the day it’s recommended to reserve a place in advance. You don’t have to buy a ticket for entry, although there is a suggested donation.

The Old Blacksmith Shop is on the northeastern side of Galena’s town center. It is just a short walk from the Galena River and Galena Grant Park. Explore the area on foot to discover other highlights such as Turner Hall, Market House State Historic and the Galena Historical Society.

Popular places to visit


Top Old Blacksmith Shop Hotel Deals

Wyndham Garden Galena Hotel & Day Spa
Wyndham Garden Galena Hotel & Day Spa
4 out of 5
11383 US Highway 20, Galena, IL
Wyndham Garden Galena Hotel & Day Spa
Hotel Galena
Hotel Galena
2 out of 5
324 Spring St, Galena, IL
Hotel Galena
Grant Hills Motel
Grant Hills Motel
2.5 out of 5
9372 US Hwy 20 W, Galena, IL
Grant Hills Motel
'the Fiveten Federal' - Downtown Galena Gem!
'the Fiveten Federal' - Downtown Galena Gem!
3 out of 5
Galena
'the Fiveten Federal' - Downtown Galena Gem!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.