Blacksmithing Classes Start March 16 In Roswell

From The City of Roswell: The timeless trade of blacksmithing can now be witnessed and explored at The Forge at Art Center West – Roswell Recreation, Parks, Historic and Cultural Affairs Department’s newest addition, located in Leita Thompson Park. For Roswell residents and visitors ages 16 and up seeking creative adventure in this traditional medium, workshops and classes focused on the fundamentals of blacksmithing with a hammer, anvil, and gas forge begin on March 16.

The art of blacksmithing has played a vital role in community life throughout American history. Blacksmiths in history have produced cooking utensils for the kitchen, shovels and tools for fieldwork, along with axes and knives.

“We hope to get the community involved in an outdoor activity that is engaging both mentally and physically while freeing ourselves from technology that encompasses our day-to-day lives,” said A.J. Argentina, Blacksmith Coordinator. “Actively producing something around the anvils at ‘The Forge’ will bring a sense of pride and ownership while creating dialogue and a sense of community as information and tradition are explored.”

All experience and ability levels are encouraged to participate. Upcoming classes include:

Taste of Blacksmithing Workshops

$80, Residents; $120 Non-Residents.

Students will gain working knowledge of hammering steel on an anvil, and complete a small ornamental piece to take home.

Bottle Openers

Friday, March 16, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Decorative Hooks

Friday, March 20, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Blacksmithing 101

$200, Residents; $300, Non-Residents

Safe work habits and protective gear will be emphasized while making a basic project. Students can expect to make at least two or three hand-forged objects as they learn important techniques that every smith uses when stepping up to the anvil.

Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

March 24 – March 25

April 14 – April 15

April 28 – April 29

May 12 – May 13 (Ladies Only)

Tuesdays, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

April 10 – May 1

Registration will be available 24 hours a day at roswellgov.com/registration. The complete Spring brochure can be viewed atroswellgov.com/springbrochure. For more information about blacksmithing, contact aargentina@roswellgov.com or call 770-641-3980.

Image Via Shuttershock