A Westfjords Industrial Landmark

The Old Blacksmiths Workshop in Þingeyri, also known as the Old Smithy, has a long and remarkable history. Its origins trace back to 1906, when Guðmundur J. Sigurðsson returned from mechanical training in Denmark. He brought new tools and knowledge that laid the foundation for the workshop. In 1913, he and Gramsverslun established the Guðmundur J. Sigurðsson Machine Workshop & Co., which soon became known for reliable service and skilled craftsmanship.

A Living Workshop Museum

Today, the workshop operates as a living museum where visitors can explore traditional working methods, tools and techniques that shaped local industry for more than a century. The building preserves original machines and equipment once used in daily work, offering a unique insight into craftsmanship in the Westfjords.

A traditional blacksmith’s forge was also part of the workshop and remains active today. It demonstrates how iron was shaped, hardened and repaired using methods that have changed little over time. The forge highlights the precision and skill that characterised the workshop from the beginning.

The impact of the Old Blacksmiths Workshop on the Community

For decades, the workshop played an important role in local industry and community life. It served fishermen, farmers and businesses, handling a wide range of tasks from machinery repairs to specialised equipment. Under Guðmundur’s leadership, and later his son Matthías, the workshop became nationally recognised for quality and reliability.

Preserved by the Westfjords Heritage Museum

Visiting the Old Blacksmiths Workshop is a unique experience where history comes alive in its original surroundings. It is now managed by the Westfjords Heritage Museum, which preserves this cultural heritage and makes it accessible to visitors. Guests can learn about industrial history in the Westfjords and explore original tools and equipment.

More information is available on the Westfjords Heritage Museum website.

Ten Ideas for Activities Nearby

1. Visit the Skálinn Viking Centre in Þingeyri.
2. Enjoy Belgian waffles at Simbahöllin.
3. Explore the historic garden Skrúður in Dýrafjörður.
4. Visit Hrafnseyri, birthplace of Jón Sigurðsson.
5. Walk to Dynjandi and visit the Sea Monster Museum in Bíldudalur.
6. Explore the Westfjords Heritage Museum in Ísafjörður.
7. Enjoy the view from the Bolafjall viewing platform.
8. Meet a traditional fisherman at the Ósvör Maritime Museum in Bolungarvík.
9. Visit the Arctic Fox Centre in Súðavík.
10. Sail to Hornstrandir or visit Vigur in Ísafjarðardjúp.

More ideas can be found at www.westfjords.is.