The Annual Gathering of Blacksmiths, The Hammerin, will meet again in The Mill, the 100-year old lumber mill, behind and below the Clifton Forge School of the Arts, on Saturday, Apr. 5, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The general public is invited to attend.
Blacksmiths from Central, Southwest and Tidewater Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and West Virginia will make the annual journey to demonstrate their skills and exchange information, and to sell equipment or tools.
Local blacksmith Glen Bryant will host the event, which charges an admission fee of $5 per person (which defrays travel expenses of the guest artisans). Children under the age of 12 years are admitted free of charge.
Blacksmiths John Riddle and Alex OʼDell will be working on the Millʼs forges and giving advice and lessons to beginners at no charge. Another forge will be set up outside the mill for demonstration and learning purposes. John Elliott of the Richmond area, will bring his truckload of blacksmith supplies.
Tasty lunches will be catered by Roller Bar-B-Q. Old Dog Coffee will be sold as well. The final highlight of the day is the “Iron In The Hat” event. Blacksmiths (and the general public) are encouraged to contribute items for the Hat. Chances to win any of the special items are sold during the earlier part of the day. The winning numbers are called out and the lucky winners take home their prizes.
Please call Clifton Forge School of the Arts at 540-862-7275 for more information.