Jenks Blacksmith Shop

Marsh where the Joseph Jenks Blacksmith shop once stood

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Saugus, Massachusetts

Significance:

Where tools were forged to meet the needs of the local inhabitants

OPEN TO PUBLIC:

No

Amenities

1 listed

Scenic View/Photo Spot

The Jenks Blacksmith Shop was established in 1646 by Joseph Jenks. It was located near the Slag Pile and used water from the tailrace of the Blast Furnace to run its water wheel. Using iron and steel, Jenks forged sawblades needed to cut timber and drew fine wire for making brass pins and other products. This building was not reconstructed and the area where it was is currently marsh habitat.

Jenks is credited by the United States Patent Office with having the first machine patent in what would eventually become the United States. He had a patent to "... Build a Mill for making of Sithes; and alsoe a new Invented Saw Mill, and divers other Engines for making sorts of edge tooles; whereby the Country may have such necessaries in short time at farre cheaper Rates then now they can ..." (from Massachusetts Archives, vol. 59, Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, State House, Boston, Mass).