Visiting the new blacksmith shop in 1888, Phoenix, Arizona


I found a Phoenix directory from 1888, and the ads are just wonderful. They really get me in the mood for time-traveling, so let's go visit the new blacksmith shop, which is on the corner of Center (Central) and Adams.

It's 1888, and Phoenix has really been growing since it began eighteen years ago. I hardly recognize the place. And look! A new blacksmith shop!

And let's see, according to this directory, we need to look for a Mr. A. McDonald. I suppose he'd be the one clanging on the anvil over there. But it looks like there are many men working here, it's a big shop! The ad says that they're the most competent workmen in the territory.

Let's call at the place. What? No, this is 1888, that isn't what "call" means, they don't mean on the telephone, they mean to go visit them. It's the W.J. Carrier and Company. It's OK, you're with me. What? Very funny. Should we ask for some horseshoeing? I suppose we should have a horse. I don't have one, do you? Well, I guess we can look around.

Looks like they do machine work. I'm glad that it's a cool day, that oven looks hot! Look over there, they're making a carriage, or a wagon. I'm just going to stand here and watch until they shoo us away. I don't think they would mind if we just looked around.

Maybe I'll ask for an old horseshoe to hang up for luck. Yes, I know how to hang it, loopside down to catch the luck!

Thank you for visiting the new blacksmith shop in 1888 with me!
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