Not sure where introductions should be posted. But, here I am.
My name is Taylor, my first experience with blacksmithing began in 1976 as a freshman at Berea College in Kentucky. I am a Kentuckian (Harlan County) by birth, currently live in Tennessee. As it turned out, I got in on the ground floor of the new shop. It was simply called Wrought Iron. We made things to be sold in the campus stores. And I got paid for it, a whole 10 cents an hour was my take home. Xxxx I would have done it for free.
After 2 years there, I was tired of school.Joined the Army and spent 10 years as a Infantryman. A lot of my parts don't work good anymore and some of them are aftermarket. So then came the US Postal Service. 25 years and retirement.
Now I like retirement,all things are done at my pace. Yep, I get behind. But we get to travel,wife retired too. Plus I can spend 7 days a week hunting or just reloading and shooting.
I have been retired 4 years now. But shortly after retirement, I got a hair brained idea to build a forge and try and remember what I had learned so many years ago. Then came Forged in Fire to add to the motivation. Computers helped,which is how I found you guys.I built a coal forge and started gathering up my tools. Am currently working on a propane tank forge--just about done.
I've made a few blades,gave all of them away to family. All were skinning knives and they hunt. Recently I made a Cherokee style tomahawk from a ball peen hammer. Gave it to my daughter. She is still in the Army. ( 2 sons and daughter are serving or have served).
So,.. that's my story.
