[ApprenticeMan]

Originally Posted by ladysmith

I live in a trailer park, and haven't tried to set up a forge here...too many odd neighbors. I did however find a state park that had a wonderful blacksmiths shop...built in 1923 specifically for demos... I play there during the Spring, Summer and Fall (and yes they are saving "my forge" for me next year).

When I lived in WV (before I moved to the trailer park in PA), I had set up with the local craft guild the possibility of teaching very basic blacksmithing. The idea was the first set of classes would be on making simple propane forges , of which each student (limit of 10) would make two...one to keep and one to donate to the guild in leu of class fees (the guild would still pay me for teaching forge building out of grant monies). The guild worked out a deal with the local group that was converting the old train roundhouse to a museum. I would teach class in the old train forges, with the idea that when it was completely converted, I would demo occasionally for them (paid). Win-win all round for everyone! The option is still open when my arm is better. I am a huge fan of local arts and crafts guilds. By virtue of their non-profit status they have access to an amazing amount of financial and local resources.

Anyway, there are a multitude of creative ways to be able to blacksmith in areas that just aren't feasable to set up a forge of any kind.

Pam

How far is Carlisle from New York? The border I mean, I am right on the PA NY border, about 45 minutes from Honesdale. I would to do that propane forge class! Ever hear of the Northeast Blacksmith's Association Ladysmith?