A: No! This is the biggest misconception most people have about blacksmiths. In fact most blacksmiths rarely (if ever) shoe horses. That job belongs to a specialist blacksmith known as a Farrier. The distinction between blacksmith and farrier is just like the difference between a family doctor and a dentist. (They are both doctors, but one is a specialist).

Q: If blacksmiths don't shoe horses, then what do they do?

A: Blacksmiths were the 'Home Depot' or hardware store of the Iron Age. They made iron/steel products that were used in all areas of life; from the mundane nail, to exquisite swords, and mechanical devices such as padlocks. Today some blacksmiths create historically accurate copies or make repairs to original ironwork, while other blacksmiths team up with interior designers or receive commissions for unique wrought iron designs. Still other blacksmiths follow their passion and build works of artistic expression.

Q: I didn't think there were many blacksmiths left; how big is CDBA?

A: CDBA was founded in November of 2001. That first meeting had approximately 25 blacksmiths in attendance (not bad for a meeting that was arranged strictly via word of mouth). As word spread more blacksmiths (and people wanting to learn blacksmithing) from the Capital District joined. As of February 2005 we have 92 people from the Capital District and surrounding areas on our membership roles.

Q: Where can I learn more about blacksmithing?

A: In addition to some excellent books and numerous websites, CDBA holds demonstrations that are open to the public. These demonstratrions often include primitive, historic, modern and 'low budget' forge setups. This amount of variety provides a beautiful cross section for learning about blacksmithing.

Q: Is there some way I can actually try blacksmithing?

A: Yes. Once a year CDBA hosts a "Green Coal" area that is open to the public at the Hancock Shaker Village in Hancock, MA (see the Calendar page for scheduling). The main goal of "Green Coal" is to give the public a chance to try their hand at blacksmithing. In addition, CDBA also hosts a series of "Hammer-In's" for our members. At a "Hammer-In" a guest speaker will demonstrate a technique, or item and then those in attendance get to practice the technique, or make the item themselves on the spot with assistance from the guest speaker.

Q: What is required?/How can I join CDBA?

A: The only things required to join CDBA are a level head, some common sense, an eagerness to learn, and $10/year. The level head, and common sense come into play because we're working with metal that is often well over 1,000 degrees F. Most blacksmiths second love (after shaping hot metal), is telling others what they have learned and sharing little discoveries, tips and hints; so, an eagerness to learn is a must. Lastly, $10/year helps keep our newsletter (and this website) up and running. If you're interested in becoming a member click here.

Q: When does CDBA meet?

A: Business meetings are held every other month (the even numbered months) on the first Monday. Hammer-Ins, Workshops, Demonstrations, and Family Events are scheduled as time and opportunity allow and (with the exception of 'Age of Iron') do not have regular dates. However, all of these events are posted on the Calendar and Meeting pages on this website.