Hands-On History Workshop: Blacksmithing

Event Details

Select Days | 10 AM–3 PM 

June 17, June 24, July 8, July 15, July 22, July 29, Nov 14 & Nov 21, 2026  

Forge, Craft and Become a Blacksmith 

Forge your skill and prove your merit as an 1800s metalworker when you step into the heat of the Blacksmith Workshop at Old World Wisconsin! Learn the basics of blacksmithing as you work in small groups shoulder to shoulder with a trained and talented smith. At the warmth of the forge, learn how to heat and work steel by crafting and molding a variety of different objects—which you’ll be able to take home and present to friends, family and loved ones as handmade gifts. No prior experience is needed. This is an introductory level class. Projects to make and take with you include different hook styles and other small items. 

Each participant will make at least one item to take home; items may vary on skill level and instructor. 

What You’ll Experience   

• The opportunity to apprentice under a talented Old World smith
• A course in forging, heating and working steel into a variety of different objects
• The chance to bring home hand-crafted, forge-made souvenirs for friends, family and loved ones 

Cost

$200/person 

Must be 18+ to participate.  

Advanced registration is required.

Society members receive a 10% discount, please verify your membership where prompted to receive discount at check out.

About the Location

Old World Wisconsin includes 60 authentically restored historic homes, farms, stores and workshops. Each region features a distinct set of stories that invite you to experience the hopes and dreams of those who came before us. From the 1840s to the 1940s, you’ll find a true panorama of early Wisconsin history, covering more than 70 years and many cultures, including African American, Danish, Finnish, Hessian, Irish, Norwegian, Polish, Pomeranian and Yankee. 

Old World Wisconsin first opened in 1976. Researchers traveled throughout Wisconsin in search of historic buildings crafted by the first generation of Wisconsin immigrants and migrants. From Lake Superior to the Illinois border, and from the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan, historians documented countless historic farmhouses, outbuildings and small-town structures. Once research was complete, the meticulous construction of Old World Wisconsin began. Piece by piece, workers carefully dismantled historic structures from around the state and reconstructed them in their new home.  

Old World Wisconsin 
W372 S9727 Hwy 67
Eagle, WI 53119 

Know Before You Go & Accessibility 

• This workshop is for participants 18 years and up.
• The instructor will meet participants at the Welcome Center.
• Participants should bring their own lunch.
• Participants are encouraged to bring a water bottle. Historic buildings at Old World Wisconsin do not have modern heating/cooling systems and working with a forge can be very hot during the summer.
• Old World Wisconsin grounds remain open rain or shine. Programs are subject to change based on availability and weather conditions.
• Old World Wisconsin is located within the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The site features gravel roads, rough and hilly terrain, and encompasses over 400 acres of publicly accessible woodlands. Our staff recommends dressing in layers and choosing sturdy footwear.
• Onsite vehicle parking is available for FREE at Old World Wisconsin. The parking lot can accommodate large vehicles, RVs, and buses.
• Modern restrooms, changing rooms, and water fountains are available on site.
• No pets are allowed.
• Because of the historic nature of the buildings, not all areas are ADA accessible. Guests using wheelchairs and electric scooters are eligible for complimentary admission. Guests with additional mobility needs are encouraged to contact the site directly at 262-594-6301 or [email protected]. 

Have Questions?

For more information, please contact the box office at 608-264-4848 or [email protected].