e’re always glad to talk with folks about our project, answer questions about renewable energy and biofuels, and consider recommendations for future additions to the Green Energy Park. Educating the public is one of our main goals at JCGEP, and tours are available Wednesdays and Fridays from 2–4 pm. JCGEP will also accommodate tours of 10 or more by appointment.

As part of the tour, visitors will learn the mission of the Park, JCGEP's past accomplishments, and future plans. The walking portion of the tour will include visits to the landfill gas system, the newly operational greenhouses, the future site of the pottery and glassblowing facility, and the fully functioning blacksmith studios. Contact the Park to find out when a blacksmith will be on site for demonstrations.

The Blacksmith Village is offering the following courses in 2008: 

Blacksmithing

• Friday & Saturday, July 25-26. 6:00 – 9:00 pm. Cost $125.
 
JCGEP Blacksmithing classes provide individualized instruction to all skill levels. Our six-hour course segments are designed to introduce beginners to the basic techniques of blacksmithing. More advanced students can bring their own project ideas to class and will receive individualized guidance. Instructor William Rogers, Master Smith, assists students with problem solving, design, tool-making and improving their technical skills.

Youth Courses

Students ages 13-18 will participate in a 2-day blacksmithing class. The only cost to students will be $10 (payable upon registration), and classes will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.  Students will not only practice basic blacksmithing skills, but will also study the history of blacksmithing and its rich tradition as a heritage art.

Blacksmithing will be presented as both an art form, and as an indispensable part of Appalachian culture, where the blacksmith traditionally functioned as the community engineer, mechanic, and toolmaker. Modern applications of blacksmithing skill will also be discussed, such as historic restoration, tool repair, custom fabrication, and annealing. 

Blacksmith William Rogers demonstrating his craft for JCGEP Director Timm Muth and NC Senator Richard Burr.

Prior experience in blacksmithing or metalwork is not a requirement.  This program is funded by a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), a federal-state partnership that works with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life. 

Independent Study

Every Wednesday from 2:00 - 4:00 pm students get forge time (with limited instructor input), at the rate of $15 per hour plus materials cost. This is the perfect opportunity to design and build small projects, create tools, or just practice your skills, all with a blacksmith on site to answer questions and guide the process.

Our independent study time does not include the one-on-one training you will get in our regular blacksmith classes, and is therefore recommended for students who are ready to progress to the next level.  Space is limited, and you must call ahead to reserve forge space.

Instructor William S. Rogers was named Master Blacksmith by Virginia and his native state of Tennessee. He is a member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild.
 
Interested parties should call 828-631-0271 for registration forms and more information. Space is limited, and classes fill up quickly.

We will be scheduling additional classes throughout 2008, so please call to be placed on a contact list if you are unable to attend this round of classes.