Think Blacksmiths Disappeared? Think Again.
Local craftsmen are keeping a centuries-old tradition alive through fire, steel and fellowship
By Lori Leath Miller
Blacksmithing may have been popularized in recent years by television shows such as Forged in Fire and Men at Arms, but in our state, the tradition has been thriving for more than four decades thanks to the Florida Artist Blacksmith Association (FABA).
Founded in 1984, FABA has spent the last 41 years teaching the craft, preserving its history and helping establish historical blacksmith shops throughout the state. Its mission is simple: To teach – To preserve. “Blacksmithing has experienced a renaissance in recent years, but this isn’t new to us,” said David Sandlin of the Far West Panhandle Blacksmiths chapter. “FABA has been teaching the craft and preserving the traditions of blacksmithing in Florida for more than four decades.”
Today, FABA includes eight chapters across the state, each hosting monthly meetings where blacksmiths of all skill levels gather to share techniques, ideas and stories while working hot iron at the forge.
For local residents, that opportunity is available through the Far West Panhandle Blacksmiths chapter, headquartered at Traditions Workshop, 418 Green Acres Road in Fort Walton Beach. Meetings regularly feature demonstrations, hands-on projects and open forge time, allowing participants to learn new skills or work on personal projects alongside experienced smiths. “Our mission is to teach and preserve the noble art of blacksmithing,” Sandlin said. “We enjoy the open exchange of ideas as we smite hot iron on the anvil.”
First-time visitors are always welcome at no charge. After that, annual family memberships are just $30 and provide access to FABA events across Florida, discounts on the organization’s annual conference and a digital subscription to The Clinker Breaker, FABA’s monthly newsletter featuring blacksmithing news, projects and events from around the state.
One of the highlights of each year is the statewide convention in Gainesville, where blacksmiths gather for three days of demonstrations, classes and fellowship. This year’s event, FABA CON 41, is scheduled for Oct. 16-18 at the Best Western Gateway Grand in Gainesville.
Beyond teaching traditional skills, FABA members actively seek opportunities to introduce the public to blacksmithing through demonstrations at museums, libraries, festivals and community events. “FABA is always looking for opportunities to put the noble craft of the blacksmith before the public eye,” Sandlin said. “Museums, libraries and community venues have proven to be great places to meet people and generate interest in our craft.” The organization also welcomes recommendations from groups interested in hosting a demonstration or “hammer-in” event.
Upcoming Far West Panhandle Blacksmiths Events
June 27 Traditions Workshop, Fort Walton Beach | 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Members will focus on drawing out heavy steel while working on the chapter’s competition piece for display at the October conference. This year’s project incorporates the themes of motion, balance and inspiration from the cosmos. Open forges will follow the demonstration. Lunch provided; donations appreciated.
July 25 John Butler Family Farm, 4112 Bell Lane, Pace | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
The focus shifts to the annual gift-exchange project, “Something That Twists or Turns.” Demonstrations will include forging a corkscrew under the shade of the pecan trees. Lunch provided; donations appreciated.
Aug. 22 Traditions Workshop | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Members pursuing Journeyman certification will work toward completing required standards in preparation for recognition at the October state conference.
Sept. 12 Traditions Workshop | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
This special out-of-cycle meeting will focus on completing both the chapter competition project and individual gift-exchange projects before the conference season begins.
Oct. 10 Traditions Workshop | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Members will prepare equipment and pack the trailer in advance of FABA CON 41 in Gainesville.
Oct. 16-18 FABA CON 41 | Best Western Gateway Grand, Gainesville
The statewide convention features three days of demonstrations, classes and educational opportunities for blacksmiths of all experience levels.
Oct. 31 Traditions Workshop | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Members will share techniques, ideas and discoveries gathered at the conference while resetting equipment for upcoming competitions.
Nov. 7 Timber Creek Distillery, 6451 Lake Ella Road, Crestview | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
The annual chapter competition returns with a mystery challenge announced closer to the event. Participants will have five hours to create a forged project using either their own steel or material from the chapter’s scrap supply. The day traditionally includes pizza from Timber Creek’s stone oven, fellowship and plenty of friendly competition.
Winter Schedule: No December meeting is planned due to holiday activities and Renaissance fair commitments.
For safety, all participants and visitors under the forge tent are required to wear safety glasses and sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. Long pants and long-sleeve shirts made from cotton or other natural fibers are strongly recommended.
For more information about membership, events or hosting a demonstration, visit www.blacksmithing.org or contact David Sandlin at david@traditionsworkshop.com or (850) 974-1548.
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