One very important contribution the blacksmith made to a farming community was the ability to make horseshoes. Every farmer needed horseshoes therefore, as you can imagine, it was a very important responsibility.  The process to make a horseshoe is quite complicated. The blacksmith first has to select a steel bar of the appropriate size, and then heat it so he can work on it. He draws out a certain section, reheats it, makes a few bends, reheats it and resizes it. He continues making bends and curves and adjustments until the shape of the shoe is completely finished. Unfortunately, it doesn't stop there. The blacksmith still has to make the proper creases and mark the spots for the nails. He then has to carefully punch the holes for the nails. Everything has to be exact or he will have to start over again. Depending on the skill of the blacksmith, this process could take a few minutes, an hour or, much longer.