chapter 293

Blacksmithing

10/13/2012

strike the iron while it's hot

I was called in on another assignment to assist the President of the Capital District Blacksmith's Association, Jim Moran,  on a special project too hot to handle. Since I had been special assistant on Dad's forge (mostly turning the hand crank handle of the bellows, not too fast- not too slow) I was ready for action. I think Dad liked me best; the other kids couldn't get the hang of it or he didn't trust them. Sis probably sold his hand crafted tongs at auction not knowing the sentimental value.

link to My Normanside Blacksmith folder (27 pics for Jim)  

On the office phone in 1974 with a couple kids in foreground photo. Here he is working on the Mariners Cross for these kids. It's a reference to when Emperor Trajan tied the Pope Clement to an anchor and threw him in the Black Sea. Four decades ago during for 5 year span Jim and I worked on recruiting environmental engineers; rating written applications, giving oral exams, then placing them into programs. Exam schedule on wall.

 No offense to the art of blacksmithing but probably my best shot was of the old chain in the back room. Kevin will think it's boring as he only has interest in what the latest thing his kids are doing. May use in photo club- next theme is indoors/ no flash.

.