The Education and Program Committees extend an invitation to a trial…

Saturday General Membership All-Day Event

Saturday, June 17th

This event will coincide with the June NOWTHEN HAMMER-IN on June 16 and 17.

We invite you to the Nowthen Historical Power Association show grounds: 7415 Old Viking Blvd, Nowthen MN (north of Anoka/Ramsey)  (map below)

The day’s schedule:

You may arrive any time on Saturday morning. There will be smiths working in the shop all day making fun and beautiful forgings and you can watch or possibly assist. There will be a short business meeting conducted by our President, Larry Wasmund at around 11:00 a.m. This meeting will last 25-20 minutes and will be followed by a potluck meal.

At 1:30 there will be a group of our blacksmiths competing in a blind forging contest. No, they are not blindfolded but they won’t know until they are done if they forged the proper item. They must reach into an enclosed box and without seeing the item, using only one hand, determine the shape/item/ textures, etc. and then forge the item with the piece of stock provided. The closest forging to the original will receive special recognition. There will be forging on at least 5 stations all day long.

Enjoy the day socializing with members and friends or watch the forging and ask questions. Stay as late as you want or until things wind up for the night.

Taste of Blacksmithing Sessions

As a special offering there will be a portable shop trailer on-site and you may be able to get a TASTE OF BLACKSMITHING with hands-on demonstration. This is available to anyone who attends, but minor children must be accompanied by their parent. There will be no cost for this “Taste” event that is about 30 minutes long, and you will take your forging with you. Space will be limited for this event so registration and time must be reserved at the trailer that morning.

Come on– get your hands dirty! What to bring…

Anyone is welcome to bring their tools to forge for awhile on one of the five stations existing in the blacksmith building, or bring your own forge and anvil and set up outside for the day.

This will be a family-friendly event. Alcohol in moderation is allowed on the grounds. BYOB and beverages for your family and a dish to pass for the noon potluck. Water and possibly lemonade will be provided at the meal.

We look forward to seeing many or all of you there!

Map to Nowthen MN