California Blacksmiths
Many of us have watched blacksmiths at Knott’s Berry Farm amusement park, at Columbia State Historic Park, and ranchos, museums and living history days throughout the state. Often associated with making horseshoes and wrought iron fences (two popular applications), at one time blacksmiths made nails to build railroad tracks, created tools for mining and construction and helped America grow. 150 years ago 20% of the population worked professionally as blacksmiths. Now less two people per one million are professional blacksmiths.
That doesn’t stop hobbyists and and pros from getting together for festivals and events such as the annual Weaverville Blacksmith Hammer In March 17-19, or the spring conference of the California Blacksmith Association April 28-May 1 at Humboldt County Fairgrounds. As you might guess, there are only a few women in the trade. Of 10 presentations one woman is on the roster — Heather Mclarty.
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