Hogan Blacksmith Shop
Dublin, Erath County, Texas
Marker Inscription
William Alexander Hogan, a former C.S.A. Cavalry Blacksmith, brought his family from Mississippi to Dublin after 1870. With railroads drawing cattle ranchers and cotton farmers in growing numbers, William opened a blacksmith shop on Elm Street. His son, Chester, continued the family business. Chester’s son, Ben, frequented the shop but was destined for another path. He caddied at age 11 and developed into a world champion golfer. Ben used blacksmithing skills to modify his golf clubs, and in 1953 opened his own club manufacturing plant, using what he learned about the science and art of metal from his grandfather and father in the Hogan Blacksmith Shop. The Hogan family held the land until 1997, when they donated it to the city of Dublin.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Former Confederate cavalry blacksmith William Alexander Hogan brought his family from Mississippi to Dublin after 1870 and opened a shop on Elm Street as railroads drew cattlemen and cotton farmers to the region. His son Chester carried on the trade, and Chester's son Ben—who caddied at 11—grew into a world champion golfer who used blacksmithing skills to modify his clubs and, in 1953, opened his own club-manufacturing plant. The Hogan family held the land until donating it to Dublin in 1997.
Why it matters
The humble forge links three generations of a Texas family to the making of Ben Hogan, one of golf's greatest champions, whose craft was rooted in his grandfather's anvil.
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Related people
- · William Alexander Hogan
- · Ben Hogan
Themes & tags
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