Blacksmithing for Veterans

Saturday, April 27th, 2024 | 0900-1500

Event RSVP

Would you like to attend this free event?

Submit your information below:

Blacksmithing for Veterans 2024 Registration

Thank you to our 2024 event sponsors:

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Email us at mail@kensiron.com

Frequently Asked Questions:

When is the event?

This Blacksmithing for Veterans free event will be held on Saturday, April 27th, 2024 from 0900-1500.
Is there still room available for me in this event?

Yes! We do not have a limit on how many veterans that can attend this event and it would be great to have you!
What will I learn at this event?

This event will be fairly laid-back and more of an “open-forge”, where you can come to work on whatever you’d like and ask questions/advice as needed. There will not be a formal curriculum, but will rather give you the opportunity to heat up and pound on some iron to get a taste of what blacksmithing is all about.
Can I bring my spouse/friend/sibling/etc.?

We know a great support system is essential and have the utmost respect for military spouses. That being said, because space will be fairly limited at the event, we ask that the forging areas remain solely for veterans. Thank you for understanding!
How do I sign up? What information do you need?

We'll just need your name, phone number, and email address, in case we need to contact you about the class. Please sign up using the form at the top of this page, or you can give us a call at 320-746-8161 or email us at mail@kensiron.com!
What do I need to bring?

A desire to learn about blacksmithing! If you have safety glasses and hearing protection, please bring them, otherwise we'll have some for you. All food, beverages, materials, tools, and supplies will be provided.
I have a disability. Can I still come?

Absolutely-we would love if you could come to this event! Blacksmithing can be a wonderful physical and mental therapy and we know many people who have successfully done blacksmithing with various disabilities. There are many smiths who blacksmith from their wheelchairs too! We're happy to accommodate however we can!
Will I have my own workstation (forge/anvil/vise/etc.)?

This may depend on the weather. We are expecting a great turnout for this event, which means you may have to share a station with a few other veterans. If the weather is nice, we would like to set up a few extra workstations outside, meaning you'd share a station with fewer people. Sharing a station with others will give you the opportunity to get to know other veterans in the area, discuss what you're working on, etc.
Do I need to be there right away at 0900/Can I leave early/etc.?

It would be great to have you stay the whole day, but you are welcome to come and go as you please.

Mail

What is "Blacksmithing for Veterans"?

This FREE event is open to all military personnel, past and present. Whether you have never swung a hammer before, have some experience, or have a disability that prevents you from enjoying hobbies like blacksmithing, we want you to join us for a day in the shop. Come try your hand at heating up and pounding on some iron!

Blacksmithing can be a form of mental and physical therapy and provide a creative outlet for many people, including disabled veterans and veterans with PTSD.

But why blacksmithing?

What else should I know?

This event is absolutely free. All you need to bring is a desire to learn. We will handle the rest (lunch, beverages, and sweets will be provided.) Also be sure to take a look at our event t-shirts! The proceeds from the sales of these shirts will be donated to local veteran's charities here in Central Minnesota.