Artisans

Blacksmith

Blacksmiths made a variety of objects that people used every day. Iron was valuable because it was strong and durable. It could be forged, or heated and hammered, into many shapes, from cutting utensils to horseshoes and kitchen tools. He also made hoops for the cooper's barrels and wheel coverings for the wheelwright. Carpenters relied on him for nails, latches, and hinges, and farmers needed him to make farming implements.

The tinsmith created objects for the home and for other artisans from tin-a soft, silvery-white metal. The tinsmith hammered sheets of tin into all kinds of things, such as pails, lanterns, colanders, cups, and kitchen utensils.

The Furnace Town Blacksmithing Guild and the Gichner Memorial Forge

 The Furnace Town Guild was created to teach blacksmithing to those interested, with the hope of having some of those taught demonstrate in the Furnace Town Historic Forge. This historic double-forge is a good representation of a blacksmithing shop in the early 1800's.

The Guild is also used by those who wish to work in a modern forge. A new shop, named The Gichner Memorial Forge, was built adjoining the existing forge with the help of Bill Gichner who donated tools, equipment and funds. Bill Gichner owned and operated for more than fifty years a store, Iron Age Antiques, which specialized in blacksmithing tools and equipment. The incredible collection of valuable tools now equips both the modern and historic forges at Furnace Town.

Anyone may join the Blacksmith Guild as long as they are a current member of Furnace Town, are at least 16 years old,  and have a willingness to learn. For more information please contact Furnace Town.