Blacksmithing 101
April 13 & 14, 2024
Strike While the Iron’s Hot!
Blacksmithing is an ancient skill considered a lost art today. With the return of this workshop, you can learn the basics of heating, shaping, and bending metal while working on a reproduction of an early 19th century travelling forge, similar to those used by the U.S. Army during the War of 1812.
This is a beginners-level hands-on workshop, designed to benefit novices only. Participants will learn and practice basic heating and hammering techniques, building and controlling their fire, and shaping and tempering metal. All will have the opportunity to create a piece of their own and take it home! Workshop cost includes all materials and supplies. Workshop size is strictly limited to the first 6 people registered and everyone must sign a safety-waiver in order to participate.
NOTE: This workshop takes place outside. Please dress for the weather. In the event of severe weather, staff will make a determination the day of the workshop and participants will be notified of any cancellations/postponements by phone and/or email.
Details
- Meet at the Fort Meigs Visitor Center
- Class is 10:00 a.m. – appx. 4:00 p.m.
- Takes place outside. Dress accordingly.
- Limited to the first 6 people registered for each day. Participants may sign up for ONE day, but not both.
- $110 per person, which includes all materials.
- $100 for OHC members
What You Need
- Must be 16 years or older.
- Sturdy shoes that cover your feet. Leather boots recommended.
- Clothes that can get dirty/singed. Wear pants & shirt with sleeves that can be rolled up.
- Long hair must be secured.
- Brown-bag lunch
Register
- Please call for availability. Space is extremely limited. 419-874-4121
"This day came in two brigades of pack horses laden with flour and iron..."
~ Captain Daniel Cushing
March 2, 1813
Photo credit: Weaver