The Manitowoc County Historical Society, in partnership with the Upper Midwest Blacksmith Association (UMBA), will present a special hands-on program called “The Other Side of the Anvil” on Saturday, June 25 and Sunday, June 26 from 10 am to 4 pm both days.
In addition to the Blacksmith Shop in Pinecrest Village, there will be multiple forging stations—complete with forge, anvil, vise and tools— fired up and skilled regional blacksmiths will provide hands-on instruction for guests.
Guests are encouraged to take part in blacksmithing demonstrations by stepping up to a forging station and with the guidance of an experienced smith, make a small iron object using the same heat and hammer techniques practiced at the historical village’s shop.
The program is included in general admission to the museum - $10 for adults, $7 for children age 4 to 17, and free for those under age 4. Admission is also free for MCHS Members.
Special Scout Rate: $6 per scout. Wear your scout gear!
Guests of any age can participate, but those under 18 must have the signed permission of an adult and need to be accompanied by an adult parent while they work. Safety glasses and gloves will be provided. Participants will be accepted on a first-come first-served basis.
The program is made possible by the Upper Midwest Blacksmith Association. The Upper Midwest Blacksmith Association is a non-profit organization of amateur and professional artists and blacksmiths. UMBA’s mission is to educate, share knowledge, and to present the art of blacksmithing to the public. UMBA is an affiliate of the Artist Blacksmiths Association of North America. For more information about UMBA, please visit their website and Facebook page.
Are you a blacksmith interested in sharing your talents? You’ll be helping people make memories to go with their creation and maybe light the fire for a new smith! For more information about being a part of “The Other Side of the Anvil”, please contact MCHS Volunteer George Baldwin at (920) 255-3346 or gbaldwin77@gmail.com.