Medieval

Industry

Water was harnessed to provide a source of power from very early times. The woodworking tool called a plane re-appeared in Medieval times (it had been used by the Romans). The plane smoothed rough edges and allowed interlocking wheels to work more effectively.

Water was used to power all sorts of mills including, corn, paper, those treating cloth or 'fulling' and forges to work iron.

Water power was subject to stoppages though because of frost or drought!

Trip hammers like the one in the picture made the job of beating metal far easier and faster.

How does this hammer work?

Click the picture for an answer.

Many water mills power iron forges were located along the River Tame which now flows through present day Birmingham.