Volunteer blacksmiths are the core of our Village programming, linking 19th century trade to 21st century, hands-on learning. Our dedicated team of blacksmiths volunteer their time to teach the public about the art and history of blacksmithing, keep the Clark Blacksmith Shop maintained as both a working shop and Museum demonstration space, and spend time in the shop growing their skills.
Want to join the blacksmithing team? New classes start each March. New blacksmith volunteers pay a nominal fee in their first year. After one year of commitment to the program, the fee will be waived for continued service to the Village. Blacksmith volunteers commit to two years of courses and volunteer service and must be 18 years of age or older by the start of the program. (Those under 18 interested in blacksmithing courses, please see our
Teen Leadership Experience information.) See the full program outline below for details.