Balcones Forge

A

Anthony Chaney

Joined
Jan 29, 2004
Messages
172
I attended the monthly meeting of Balcones Forge in Austin, Texas yesterday. I must say that I really enjoyed myself. They are a friendly group of both Men and Women. One of the ladies showed me how to make a Frederick Cross and a couple of other gentlemen showed me their technique on the cross as well. I was taught how to forge weld chain. They wanted me to try my hand at it, but I get nervous in front of people and asked them if it would be ok to just watch. Man, I had such a good time. A group of local girls cooked us a delicious meal in Dutch Ovens. They were saving for their senior trip and asked for a 5.00 donation. They did such a fine job, that I gave them a little more because I felt they did a remarkable job. They served Baked Turkey and Gravy, Green Bean Casserole, Chicken Fricassee, Chicken Ravioli with Mushrooms, Lasagna, Home made Rolls, Salad, Ice Tea, and for desert we had Peach Cobbler, Apple Rootbeer Spice Cake and Vanilla Ice Cream. The girls cooked plenty of food and we were encouraged to try every dish. I left there weighing 10 pounds heavier, but oh so happy. If you are within driving distance to Austin, Texas I encourage you to come to their next meeting. You will have a great time and meet a bunch of fine people.
 
I checked out the site yesterday and I've got a couple questions if you could answer them.

1. Is it just a walk in sort of thing or do I need to contact them in advance?

2. Do you have to be a member to watch?

If things work out, I should be at the next meeting!
Thanks!
 
I sent Rudy Billings an Email and he invited me. I don't think you would need an invite though. I look forward to seeing you there. Let me know if you need any help contacting any of the members.
 
Blacksmith groups are great for having fun and learning, even for the knife maker. I got involved with the River Bluff Foge Council in Memphis around 18 years ago and became good friends with several members there. I helped one guy with knives and together we both learn to make damascus with the help of a few others. I used to go over there 4 or 5 times a year and some of the guys came up here to my shop, it was good times. BAM, the group here in Missouri is one of the largest in the country and they put on a big conferance each year with knife making stuff too. FABA is another good one in Florida, I gave a mosaic demo down there a couple years ago, also a great group of guys. Sorry for the highjac Anthony:) but I get excited about blacksmith events and meetings, they are great fun. I'm planning on attending a few next year myself, it's been awhile.
 
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