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sionnach commented on the word bog iron hunter
Stamina and a positive attitude are the qualities needed to take on this job. Work takes place all year round, in all weathers, and involves searching for bog iron in local wetlands.
Bog iron is often found where a mountain stream runs down through a peat bog. The stream carries dissolved iron but little oxygen. In these anaerobic conditions, certain bacteria concentrate the iron as part of their life processes. The iron 'grows' into pea-sized nodules, which can be harvested and smelted. Bog iron is a renewable natural resource – bogs can be harvested of their iron every 30 years or so – so you can be sure of having a job for life.
The work involves cutting and pulling back innumerable layers of peat. It is physically hard, frustrating and dull, and your fingers soon resemble prunes. However, you will be part of a much larger team responsible for the production of iron implements, from ships' rivets to battle swords, and some job satisfaction may be drawn from this.
July 8, 2008