pattersons spade mill

This historic property, founded in 1919, is now owned by the National Trust and the last working water-driven spade mill in Ireland. Guided tours show the whole fascinating process from heating a block of metal in the forge through to the finished product, while an exhibition on site reveals some of the history and culture of this humble spade. In addition you can explore the mill race and even buy a turf garden spade on site.

Through guided tours, the fascinating process of spade making is demonstrated: Heating a billet of metal in the forge Drawing it out on the massive and noisy tilt hammer Applying the lift and dish on a metal press to give the spade its required shape Sharpening and tempering the blade And then fixing the shaft to the blade with rivets, and finishing the spade off ready for distribution.

The mill race can be explored and the remnants of other former industrial processes such as linen beetling and a paper mill can be seen.

There is an excellent exhibition in the reception area, which explains the traditional process and reveals some of the history and culture of the humble spade.

A visit to Patterson's Spade Mill is a fascinating experience for all the family to enjoy.