United by the anvil. Driven by the hammer.
A club of blacksmiths and metal artists at every level, with a fully equipped shop open to members. Novice or experienced, there's room for you in our forge.
What we do
We are more than just a club. We come together to share, learn and practice the skills of blacksmithing.
Open shop
Access to a fully equipped blacksmithing shop.
Knowledge sharing
Collaborative learning and skill development.
Guest demos
Occasional demonstrations from experienced smiths.
Community
Meetings, events and shared projects.
Come ready to heat and beat some metal.
The first time you come down, be prepared to participate. We will pull you right in and get you heating and beating some metal right away.
- Safety glasses are required. Not allowed on the shop floor without them.
- Non-synthetic shoes. Leather is best, since synthetics can melt to your foot.
- Hearing protection is recommended, and bring water. It gets hot.
In the shop
Forge, anvil and a room full of people making things.
Rebuilt after a tornado. Still burning.
In October 1988 a small group formed the Great Plains Blacksmith Association, co-founded by Steve Hurlock and Rick Plough. In 1990 the club began rebuilding the historic Ward Blacksmith Shop in Haysville, Kansas, as a permanent home.
On May 5, 1999 a tornado leveled the shop. By 2003 it was rebuilt, and in 2007 the club became Central States Metal Artisans, welcoming blacksmithing, silversmithing, foundry work and machining.