The Anvil's Chorus

The Anvil’s Chorus

November 2001

Page 2 The Anvil’s Chorus Executive Committee ( Board of Directors): President: Bill Banker – 607-276-6956, PO Box 174 Almond, NY 14804, e-mail: [email protected] Vice President: Verner Hornquist – 716–433-7570, 6062 Shaffer Rd. Lockport, NY 14094 Treasurer: Dick Rightmyer – 585-293-3299, 251 Leibeck Rd. Churchville, NY 14428, e-mail: [email protected] Secretary: Harold Hopkinson – 315-682-6314, 4590 South Brookhill Dr. Malius, NY 13104, email: [email protected]

Forgemasters: Adirondack: John Scarlett – 315-324-5635 Niagara: Bob Corneck – 716-741-4311, e-mail: [email protected] Genesee: Dick Rightmyer – 585-293-3299, e-mail: [email protected] Mohawk: Dale Barrows – 607-849-3198, e-mail: [email protected] Southern Tier: John Fee – 607-523-6677, e-mail: [email protected]

Newsletter editor: Al Butlak – 716-894-7185, 1351 Walden Ave. Buffalo, NY 14211, e-mail: [email protected] Scholarship Chairperson: Jim Robarr – 716-433-8564, e-mail: [email protected]

Nominations Chairperson- Your name could be here, volunteer!

The Cover: A group of NYSDB members who were present at the all state meeting at Jeff Jubenville's shop in Kent, NY that was a two-day event for the entire membership. A write up on the meeting will appear elsewhere in this issue.

The Anvil’s Chorus is composed and written by the editor except as indicated. Material may be reprinted except as noted as long as proper credit is given to NYSDB. It’s officers, demonstrator's writers, editor, and members specifically dis- claim any responsibility or liability for any damages or injuries as a result of the use of any information published in the Anvil’s Chorus. The use of any informa- tion published is strictly at the user’s own risk. NYSDB Page 3 E DITOR’S NOTES Another year is about to end and the NYSDB is getting ready lying plans for the New Year. Plans are being laid out for the ring grille, which we are doing for the conference in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The ABANA chapter liaison letter outlines the program. It should be an exciting event. We are sponsoring the ring project and the flag project. At the all state meet- ing in Oct. a neat flag stand was fabricated and it gave me a thought that all the regions of the NYSDB could make a similar post and create their own flag and if some of the group members attend the Confer- ence bring their flag along. A few more volunteers could be used to get the grille going. I started bending the four-inch bar for the top of the grille. So far so good. Half done. Bob Corneck has been feverishly working on the lettering, which was a similar inlay but was not satisfied with the results so the letters may be cast in brass. There will be workshops to do the pattern making and casting at random times. If interested in helping or just sitting in let us know. I am still looking for rings and I thought that each region makes one and perhaps the other chap- ters could supply the rest. As you may have heard through the grapevine is that a new group might form in the Albany area. A meet- ing was held and now it is up to someone to go up there and organize the group and get the attendees to join the NYSDB as Jim Moran started the group but does not want to be involved in organizing the group. Again any volunteers? About sixteen people were in attendance so there could be an interest Contact Jim Moran 56 Marlboro Rd Delmar, NY 12054 or email [email protected] So have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year -Al Butlak

Note Dick Rightmyer has requested all the members that attended the all state meeting to contact him for some important information!

Going through some of the other chapter newsletters I came across an interesting article on emergency first aid. I don’t remember which one but it dealt with what to do if you should nick yourself enough to possibly require a couple of stitches is to clean the wound close it after bleeding stops and apply a drop of crazy glue to hold the wound shut. The type of glue that was recommended was the type used for fastening fake finger- nail as this glue has some antiseptic in it. I would also use some liquid bandage which is also good for small nicks. Another trick for minor burns is spraying them with First Aid spray (antiseptic), it relieves the pain and sometimes prevents a blister or reduces it. It’s one of my pet tricks along with the Liquid bandage. (Never falls off and can be reapplied after washing.

Another article that appeared in several of the chapter newsletters was an article dealing with belt sanders. It mentioned that grinding or finishing aluminum or similar metals should not be followed up by finishing steel. The sparking of the steel could cause enough heat to cause the imbedded aluminum to oxidize and possibly cause the operator serious burns. The best remedy is a use separate belt for each of the metals.

-Al Butlak Page 4 The Anvil’s Chorus

ABANA Chapter Liaison Letter November 2001 2002 ABANA CONFERENCE JUNE 5-9, 2002, LA CROSSE, WISCONSIN. Get a load of these family activities. i Amish country tours. i Art stained glass creations tour. i Down a scenic country road tour. i Niagara Cave tour. i Demonstrations and lectures on arts and crafts. i Museums and galleries. i River cruises. i And a whole lot more. (See the next Liaison Letter for more family activities.) Here is a sample of the foreign demonstrators. i Smederij and Cees Pronk, Frits and Smederij Kramer from The Netherlands. i Alfred Habermann and Hand Neuschmied from Austria. i Jos Spanier from Luxembourg. i Michael Kaczmar and Alfred Bullermann from Germany. i Ousmane Samassekou from Mali. i Oleh Bonkovsky from Ukraine. HERE IS SOME HELP THAT A LOT OF US CAN USE. Doug Kluender, an Arizona blacksmith, is experienced in the workings of non-profit organizations. He has served with his local United Way in teaching boards of directors of non-profit organizations how they may more efficiently operate. He will meet with the board of any chapter that requests his services. He charges no fee, just cover his expenses. Further information on this offer is being sent to all chapter presidents. If you think you could use this service, encourage your president and board mem- bers to look into the offer. A NEW SERVICE TO YOU IS ABOUT TO BEGIN. In the past few ABANA Liaison Letters we have been talking about a new program by which chapters may share their successful activities with all chapters, so that we may learn from each other. After checking with every one imaginable (O.K., so I exaggerate a little) it is ready to go. Detailed information will be sent to chapter presidents in the near future. Talk with your president and board members and urge them to discuss using this program.

Bob Fredell, Chairman Member Services Committee

Meeting of December 1st. On a particularly gloomy but mild December 1st, eleven members of our chapter met a Sandi's Restaurant in Wheatfield for the annual year's end Breakfast Meeting. After enjoying our meal we held a meeting to discuss what we had accomplished this year and what we are looking to do in 2002. Bob Corneck outlined details of the journeyman's program and the record keeping that will be involved. Bob then discussed some options concerning a favorite topic of the group, the Amherst Museum. After the meeting the group proceeded to Gene Beamer's shop on Cottage Street where Dick Rightmyer, from the Rochester area, conducted classes on gas welding and brazing as well as electric arc stick and mig welding. Dick started out with a blackboard style discussion of the topics with special emphasis on shop safety. Then he demonstrated the techniques involved with further discussion and of the details. After he finished each demonstration he challenged the students try it for themselves, which we did with varying amount of success. Many of us had either never arc or gas welded before or had not held a "stinger" in our hands for many years. It was an excellent learning experience from a real expert in the art for all of us novices. Our thanks go to Dick Rightmyer for the training and tips and to Gene Beamer and his son for the use of their shop and equipment. Keith Price Page 5 The Anvil’s Chorus

PRESIDENTS MESSAGE Membership Role Since the distribution of the last all state meeting flyer which included the membership list. A few additions and correction have come to our attention. If anyone is not getting the flyers and newsletters please let us know so that we can update the list. This list is a constantly moving target and not a month goes by with- out some type of change so it is a continuing struggle to keep it current. Our apologies to anyone who was excluded or had some incorrect information. Please give any corrections or additions to me or Dick Right- myer. Also we would like you to check your membership expiration and keep your membership current. Scholarships We are quickly coming to the end of the year and applications are due to Jim Robarr before the December 31. Any applications received after this date will go to the bottom of the pile. Candidate selections will be made by February 1, 2002 and awards will be made by March 1, 2002. The program is designed so that NYSDB gets some benefit by having the recipients write an article for the newsletter and perform a demon- stration at one of the NYSDB meetings. Elections Next year the biannual election of officers will be held. We need someone to chair the nominations com- mittee and a few committee members. If you are interested please advise me or one of the board mem- bers. Programs Next years program is in the planning stages. In April we have scheduled Allan Kress to demonstrate. He will include power hammer work (Bill Guthrie’s 500 # hammer) and probably some hands on work for a two day meet. As told by Dale Barrows who attended Allan’s class, at the Folk School, he puts on a first class show. We are looking to schedule next years picnic toward the eastern part of the state. Marty Snye is heading up this effort and will be working as the NYSDB Event Co-ordinator as well. Thanks Marty! This years April all state meet was hosted by Marty and his wife and was highly successful. Safety The events of September 11th have made many people a little more cautious in their daily routines. Even though the Southern Tier is considered a remote area I just want to say that I am one of those people and hope that all of you reading this will agree. On a more positive note it is nice to see two or three airplanes flying over the southern tier (at the same time) in the night sky again. Also a little extra caution in our shop work and in winter weather related events will not have a big impact on getting things done and it might be time well expended if you think of the alternative if one happens to be injured. THANKS to all who have worked to make the year 2001 a great year for NYSDB! -Bill Banker - President

Photos submitted by Keith Price "saddle stand" or horse project leaf trivet. Page 6 The Anvil’s Chorus

Niagara Region - November Meeting—Submitted by Chuck Canterbury The November meeting of the Niagara Region was held on Sat., Nov. 10th at Vern Hornquist's shop in Lockport, where John Rausch demonstrated various fold- forming techniques. The objective of the hammer in was not the production of one or two specific projects, but rather a demonstration of using fold forming to produce design elements that can be incorporated into various projects, as the individual blacksmith's creativity dictates. John demonstrated for the morning ses- sion then the afternoon was devoted to experimenting with the techniques. Several projects were displayed to illustrate how the techniques can be incorporated into the design and construction of various projects. The items displayed were as follows: a copper vase with fold formed sides, a garden gate with fold formed vertical bars, fold formed bracelet, letter opener, and a jewelry box with fold formed parts.

A. Steps in doing a line fold: 1. Anneal small (3" x 3") piece of copper sheet metal. Heat copper with torch until you see color flash (flame color changes green to orange) or heat to a dull red-then quench in water. 2. Fold copper piece over and even edges-then hammer flat with rawhide mallet. 3. Open partially, then anneal as before, and then open flat. Use hammer, if necessary, and experiment with how far you open the piece, as this will change line quality (width, height, and sharpness of line.) 4. To cross lines fold 90º from first line and set with set tool (to avoid marring first line) and rawhide mallet-open partially-anneal and open flat as before. Note: To change design or add design elements just add more lines, angle lines, hammer lines down, etc.

B. A variation of the simple line fold can be accomplished by annealing a piece of copper, fold in half as before then put it in a vise at an angle. Flatten it down evenly with a rawhide mallet as illustrated below.

5. Partially open by hand, anneal and open as before.

C. Wrapping around mandril. 1. Take rectangular strip of copper about 3/4” x 8" and anneal as before. 2. Wrap strip of copper around mandril of a convenient size (1/2"-3/8".) Roll around mandril until you have a cylinder (toilet paper roll.) 3. Remove mandril and hammer down copper tube using a rawhide mallet (hammer flat.) 4. Anneal and unroll copper strip. 5. Enhance and vary design by hammering edges of flattened roll.

D. Spiral 1. Anneal narrow piece of copper and fold in half the long way. Hammer flat with rawhide ham- mer as before. 2. Cut out leaf, flower, or just straight taper with tin snips.

3. Use cross peen or straight peen hammer to hit along folded edge starting in center and working out-This will cause piece to spiral. Note: Be very gentle hammering on the tip and do not hit too close to edge of piece.

4. Anneal piece and open up-May need knife or thin chisel to start opening piece. 5. Anneal and repeat hammering edge until piece spirals the desired amount. 6. Try varying the shape and spiral by working the open edge. Note: Do not overwork the copper without annealing or it will crack.

E. To make a flower shape 1. Anneal a square piece of copper of an appropriate size (3" x 3") 2. Fold comer to opposite corner and crease with rawhide mallet. See Diag. 1 3. Open partially, then anneal and open flat. 4. Fold corner to opposite corner in the other direction—crease as before. See Diag. 2 5. Open partially, then anneal and open. See Diag. 3 6. Push in two sides and fold into a pyramid then flatten.

7. Anneal then cut through all 4 layers of pyramid shape in an arc. (I used a small 4” grinder.)

8. Hammer folded edges with a cross peen hammer to cause metal to stretch and curl. 9. Anneal and open piece. Note: Before trying this piece you should make a paper pattern and fold it up as per directions and this will help you understand how the metal must be folded. Page 7 The Anvil’s Chorus

Taken from N.J. B.A. Newsletter—November 2001 Page 8 The Anvil’s Chorus

Mulling Iron By Doug Merkel Mulling Irons were used by tavern keepers and home cooks to heat wine or spirits that had mulling spices added. The iron was heated in the fireplace and then dunked into the mug to heat its contents. The photo is of one I made from copying a picture of a 17th Century Mulling Iron. I don't think I'll use it but it was a good forging exercise and looks good hanging up in the show room. It's a good conversation starter with customers and it helps to explain its forging so that the non-blacksmith customer can understand a little bet- ter what it is we do.

Materials: Special Tools: 4 ½” of 1" square 5/16” spring/gate fuller 8" of ¾” round 3/8” punch 6" of 3/16” square You could forge it all out of one piece but I chose to do it in two parts and forge weld them together

Handle: Fuller the ¾” round stock about 1” from the end less than half way through all the way around the bar. Forge this end into a ball. Drop back from the fuller mark about 3/8" and make a second fuller mark less than half way through all the way around the bar. Move down the bar about 2 ½” and again fuller then move down ½” and fuller again. You should end up with a ball, Ting, 2 ½” handle area and another ring. Use a rounding hammer and forge the 2 ½” stock into a double taper over the anvil horn Keep things straight as you go or they will get so far out of line you may not be able to recover. Smooth things up with your forging hammer.

Shaft: Swap ends and forge out the remaining part of the ¾” round bar into a square shaft that is 3/8” to 7/16" on the flat. Chamfer the edges of the shaft. You can leave a little excess on the end of the shaft that way you won't have to upset it for the forge weld. Now that you have a flat shaft swap ends and finish up the handle end. Heat the ball and flatten to about 5/8" thick, hot punch a 3/8" hole, chamfer the edges.

Head: Take the 1" bar and fuller square about 1 ½” from the end. Fuller down to about ½” +, keep the fuller square. Draw out this end to about 3/8" to 7/16" to match the shaft on the other piece. Again you can leave a little excess on the end for the forge weld. Swap ends and chamfer the edges of the 1" bar so that you end up with an eight sided bar. It adds to the effect if you leave the flat areas of the chamfers a little smaller than the flats of the bar. Forge or file the end of the 1" bar into a flat point (oxymoron??). Clean it up while hot you don't want a bunch of nicks, holes and marks on this end that will hold pieces of the spice.

Ring Handle: Twist the 3/16" square stock to taste. This can be done cold and you get a nice even twist from one end to the other. You could use round stock if you desire. Bend into a 1 ½” circle. Cut or file the ends so that they match up. Open the ring, insert into the punched hole and close up tight. You could forge weld the ring but the mulling iron is not heavy enough to pull the ring open and it is a tough task to forge weld this small ring and keep the edges of the twist sharp.

-The End: Scotch Brite the entire piece, apply wax finish and hang on -the wall. If you plan on using it to mull some wine then I suggest you keep the wax off the last 6 inches. The wax will make the wine taste a little funny but it will lubricate your insides.

GET IT HOT, HIT IT HARD, QUIT WHEN IT'S DONE!!!

Taken from “Cole Dusst News” - Newsletter of the Ocmulgee Blacksmiths Guild Nov/Dec 2001 Page 9 The Anvil’s Chorus

I used to be schizophrenic, but we’re ok now.

***************************************** Dick Rightmyer would like the members who attended the Demo at Jubenvilles to contact him at 585-293-3299 NYSDB Page 10

New York State Designer Blacksmiths Annual Scholarship 2001 Space Available Scholarship Report In cooperation with the John C. Campbell Folk School Brasstown, NC Recipient: Dale Barrows The course that I selected to attend was Toolmaking for Blacksmiths, taught by Mr. Allan Kress from Cullman, Alabama. This class was my first choice and as it turned out, there were only 5 students signed up and only 4 in actual attendance. If you are not familiar with the space available scholarship, I will take a moment to explain it for you. This scholarship is funded in part by the New York State Designer Blacksmiths and in part by John C. Campbell Folk School. The Room and Board is cov- ered by the NYSDB and the course tuition is covered by the JCCFS. The John C. Campbell Folk School provides this in appre- ciation for the favorable relationship that the NYSDB has had with them for many years due to the hard work and dedication that many of our members have provided. I said this Toolmaking for Blacksmiths course was my first choice because, remember, this is a space available course. If it had filled up, I would have been bumped out and would have had to select another course. Also, this space available scholarship should not be confused with the NYSDB Full Scholarship, awarded annually, which covers room, board and tuition at any school which provides blacksmithing related courses. My goals for this course were: 1) Sharpen my tool making skills. 2) Get some time working with a power hammer. 3) Get some instruction on power hammers from a qualified individual. 4) Get advice and ideas on building my own power hammer. Well, these goals were valid but shallow because by Tuesday night I found myself rethinking my goals due to the fact that Mr. Kress was such an exceptional instructor and willing to work late into the evenings that my expectations had already been ex- ceeded. In short, I found myself with an opportunity to learn far more than I anticipated. Since this was a power hammer intensive course, our first projects were make tools to use on the power hammer that would use later to make more tools. We each made a spring fuller, a cutter, a snapper and a single fuller. For years I had stepped around and ignored coil springs out of trucks and automobiles, never really seeing any value in them. But I’ve learned that this stuff is really good tool steel and it’s free! As it turns out, all of the tools mentioned in the last paragraph were made from coil springs, in part or whole. As each tool was completed, it had to be heated and left in a normalized state, meaning it was brought to a non-magnetic heat and allowed to cool to room temperature by just being left on the side of the forge. Heat-treating is not necessary because this tool steel in a normalized state is still much harder and tougher than the red-hot steel it will be used on. Later on we started working on closed dies, the kind that are used to make acorns, grapes and balls. First, the master shape has to be made, so if a person wants an acorn, it starts with a coil spring, straightened and normalized. Then grind and file the piece to the required shape, weld on a handle and normalize. The closed dies start as 2 pieces of ¾” x 2” x 2” HRS flat stock welded to a U-shaped handle. The blocks are heated in the forge, insert the master between the blocks as close to center as possible and hammer the blocks together in the power hammer. Re- member to rotate the master while hammering to avoid flat spots in the die. We also worked on open face dies, where the master was formed on the end of the coil spring section and then driven into a sin- gle piece of ¾” x 2” x 2” HRS flat stock. Mr. Kress demonstrated making a punch in the form of a daisy, which was used to stamp into a heated part. He also brought many, many different tools that he uses in his own shop and/or sells commercially. These included a wide range of closed dies, open faced dies, bending jigs and tools and tools for forming textures on the surface of the work. He allowed the students to copy or photograph the tools that he had there and he was willing to answer our questions and demonstrate the things that were diffi- cult to explain. What more could you ask for? Thanks for making these scholarships available and allowing me to attend. It would have taken years for me to accumulate the knowledge that I gained in one week at the John C. Campbell Folk School.

FYI- The area code in the Rochester area has changed from 716 to 585. Make sure when calling members in that region, check your phone book to see if that exchange has been affected. Page 11 The Anvil’s Chorus

A word from a Scholarship Winner Hi, I'm John Fee and was one of the two people who received a scholarship from NYDBS for the year 2001. The class I took was from Oct.14th to the 20th, at John C Campbell school in NC. It was taught by the resident blacksmith Elmer Roush. We learned traditional methods of joinery, mortise and tenon, riveting and collars. We were taught that these methods not only add design elements but also add structural integrity to the piece. We were shown how to make spring swages to make square and round tenons. Also the easiest square Monkey tool ( use the drive end of a socket ). The spring swage was also used to make your own rivets. He showed us several ways to head the rivets, and to decorate them. He then taught us how to make collars for joining pieces together or to hide things (arc weld:-) Elmer also showed us many kinds of forge welding, faggot, jump, lap, corner ect. He also showed us how to make a Viking styled arrow and spear head. When he asked if there was anything else we wanted to learn, I asked if he would show us how to make a Damascus billet. And he did. He started out with 2 pieces of flat truck spring and two pieces of mild steel about 2" x 4" and mig welded the ends together and a handle on it then brought it up to a welding heat fluxed and welded them all together under the power hammer. Then he drew it out , cut it in two then put one piece on top of the other and did it again and again and again , till he had the amount of layers he wanted. I too made a billet of 96 layers and then forged and ground a knife out of it but see a few place's where the weld didn't take. It's still pretty neat and will show it at the next every member meet. I highly recommend this or any school that teaches blacksmithing. You learn more in a week than you can a year on your own, plus you get to meet other blacksmiths and can learn from them too. I would like to thank NYDBS for the opportunity to attend this class. Looking forward to seeing all of you at a meeting soon. Thankx John Fee

Some pictures of work of our ladysmith Isabelle Pelissier of the Niagara Group who also operates out of the Art Center on Main St in Buffalo. The flowers are fabricated from sheet metal and rods. When Isabelle develops her forging skills a little better she'll be putting all of our work to shame NYSDB Page 12

Gene Beamer Practicing on the bellows, while Bob Corneck looks for a lost part.

Bob Shows how it is done!

Trying to forge as apple leaf for a project.

Isabelle forging iron as Gene Beamer looks on..

Laying out a branch at Kent Page 13 The Anvil’s Chorus

Gene Beamer, Bob Corneck and Al Butlak here are admiring finished chain at Amherst Museum. Jeff jubenville with Pumpkin flag on post fabricated at the meeting

Coat rack Jim

NYSDB Page 14

September 16, 2001

To the blacksmith community,

The events of September 11th have deeply affected all of us, indeed the entire world. On behalf of ABANA I extend my sympa- thies and support to all who have suffered loss. Please, give pause in all that you do in support of the victims of these attacks, indeed for our country and the civilized world. Many ways are available to assist and support the victims and those working in the recovery efforts. Please contribute as you can. But, while we and our world have been changed in many and immeasurable and yet unknown ways, we must go on, as a world, as a nation, as an organization, as persons. To do so is one way to fight back against this evil in a positive way. And, for all of ABANA, I thank those members from outside the USA who contacted us with messages of concern, support, and sympathy. They have shown that blacksmithing is a universal family that knows no borders.

Hold close all those who you hold dear. Doug Learn ABANA President

Assistant Stew Master— Dick Gier The following were left at the July picnic: 1. Large natural wicker basket 2. Camera - Fugi 310iX+zoom

Call Bob Corneck 716-741-4311 to claim

Welcome!

Hole punching champion We would like to welcome the new at the picnic—Vern Hornquist. members to NYSDB! John Brunelle - Hastings, NY Jim Moran - Delmar, NY NYSDB Page 15

Home Mades Power Ham- mers. Taken at SOFA. By Bob Robinson, New Eng- land Blacksmiths

Please feel free to submit your articles and pictures!!!! E-mail: [email protected] (please note this is the only cur- rent email address to us!) Snail mail: Al Butlak, 1351 Walden Ave. Buffalo, NY 14211

The next issue’s deadline is Feb. 15th!!!! Page 16 The Anvil’s Chorus

Financial Report Nov. 2001 JULY ’01 AUG/SEPT 01 BAL. FWD $2761.80 INCOME INCOME 5 new members $150 6 new members $180 15 renewal 300 $3834.80 AD income 369 5 renewals 100 GN income 131 Sale promo items & DEMO attendance 808 Treadle raffle 122 Iron/hat 80 Misc income 40 Sale newsletter 8 Picnic attendance & Raffle 631 Total $1846

Total +$1073 $5287.72 EXPENSE EXPENSE NYS tax penalty $186.30 Scholarships (2) $894 Mailings 9,44 Newsletter mailing & Treadle repair 100.80 Renewal postings $599.45 Misc picnic exp 31.31 Demo exp. $213.67 GN region exp 52.78 Demo fee $150.00 MO region exp 12.45 GN region exp. $ 65.90 Total -$393.08 $3441.72 Total -$1923.02

Submitted By Dick Rightmyer $3364.70

CD’s (2) $4731.55 Matures 10/05 $1845.18 10/02

total $6576.73

All State meeting Kent NY Jeff Jubenville demonstrated at the meeting. The demonstration was rather different in that Jeff used some pieces of sheet metal that were cut irregularly on each side. The piece was about five to six inches wide in spots and about three feet long. After heating the metal in the forge (coal was used) Jeff placed the metal on a stump that was slightly grooved out. After a few blows with a hammer the metal started to curve with sides up. After doing this to the entire length Jeff then proceeded to almost make a cylinder of the metal. After examination of the piece when it was cooled resembled a branch or small tree trunk (depending on diameter). Jeff made several of these branches, one being a lot smaller in diameter. After welding two of the larger stems together Jeff then layed out a hole which he then burned out to receive the smaller branch which was later welded perpendicular to the main stem. Presto we had a flag stand upon which Jeff placed a pumpkin flag that he had in the shop. On the cover is a group picture with our flag placed on the post. This would be a great idea for all of our groups to create their own flat and use this post. One thing that I forgot to men- tion is that effect was that of a limb or stem where the bark was split and peeling off. The punching of holes and slits in the solid part of the material could also create a little more desirable effect. NYSDB Page 17

President’s Letter to the Chapters, September 2001 Dear Chapter Officers and Members, The blacksmithing community has been busy on the chapter level since I wrote my last letter. CanIron III, sponsored by the West- ern Canadians and the Saskatchewan Crafts Council, held at the Western Development Museum, North Battleford, Saskatchewan was a wonderful conference in the tradition of the previous CanIrons. Canada has come a long way in spirit and organization with just three conferences and are looking to further extend their organizations' reach and educational opportunities. More on that in the next issue of The Anvil's Ring. John and Nancy Little from Canada, Mike and Robin Boone from the US, Bob and Mary Patrick from the US, and Shona Johnson and Peter Hill from Scotland were just some of the demonstrators. Many other demonstrators showed their best stuff and innovations, and all attendees had a great time and learned much. Dorothy Stiegler and Will Hightower were also there, showing ABANA support of the conference and the smithing community to the north. CanIron IV will be hosted by the Ontario Artist Blacksmith Association in July 2003 at McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario. Based on the past three, this one will only be better, and there have been many others and even more to come. Check out the ABANA web site, chapter newsletters and other calendars for more events during this productive and busy fall season. I got a chance to attend a fund raiser for Peter's Valley Craft Education Center, the Wrought Iron Conference in Dover, DE, and other meetings of the NJ and PA chapters. All great events. There never has been more activities than now. The Boy Scouts have re-instituted blacksmithing in their merit badge program. The new metalwork merit badge includes black- smith, founder, silversmith and sheet metal mechanic/tinsmith as options to pursue after completing introductory requirements to learn about metallurgy. The requirements and more information will be listed on the ABANA web site soon. To become a merit badge counselor, contact your local Boy Scout Council (listed in the phone book) or go to www.scouting.org, then local chapters, and then use the local chapter locator to find the chapter nearest you. They can give you information on becoming merit badge counselor, or drop me a line and I will help. More information will be in the latest Hammer's Blow and also in the upcoming Fall The Anvil's Ring. The ABANA library is getting a new home. The National Ornamental Metal Museum in Memphis, TN is raising funds through a capital campaign for their new library. To be housed in the "White Building" on site this library will be the best metal arts library in the world when finished. As part of their mission, the River Bluff Forge Council is holding an auction in conjunction with Re- pair Days on 20 October at the Museum to support the Museum's campaign. Money raised will be matched by an anonymous charitable organization. For more information contact the Museum at (901) 774-6389 (www.metalmuseum.org) or RBFC president Richard Carr at (901) 872-4009. And if possible join many fellow smiths at Repair Days. The event is lots of fun, fellowship, food, and work for a worthwhile cause. As I write this, the news of the World Trade Center, Pentagon and hijacking terrorist attacks today casts a painful and somber pall over all that Americans, indeed all decent persons in the world, think and do. Please remember all those involved and affected in your thoughts and prayers over the coming days and months. God Bless America. Safe and Productive Forging Doug Learn ABANA President ABANA Chapter Liaison Letter September 2001 2002 ABANA CONFERENCE JUNE 5-9, 2002, LA CROSSE WISCONSIN The centerpiece of the conference is five pavilions ¾ Japanese Pavilion. ¾ European Pavilion. ¾ International Pavilion. ¾ American Traditional Pavilion. ¾ American Contemporary Pavilion. Additional attractions ¾ Hands on teaching station. ¾ Pavilion of other craft demonstrations. ¾ Joe Straley and his steam powered trip hammer. ¾ Tailgaters by the score. More from The New York State Designer Blacksmiths In addition to their ring project, they are sponsoring a chapter flag project. For information see the summer issue of Hammer’s Blow or contact Al Butlak, [email protected]. OTHER NEWS Not too long ago we sent to all chapters for feedback our proposed list of mutual responsibilities. We received one reply! Shortly thereafter we sent to all chapters for feedback a proposal for a program whereby chapters may share their successful programs with all chapters. We received one reply! Never the less, we will continue to develop this program of sharing successful activities and give chapters the details on how a chapter may participate. Before the end of the year we will send to all chapters information on yet another new program-this one on improving ABANA/Chapter communication. Ask your president to discuss the program, when it is received, with your board and membership and return your input of ideas to us. We are trying hard to consult with the chapters in establishing these programs rather than unilaterally making the program decisions. This can be accomplished only if we all do our part.

Bob Fredell, Chairman NYSDB Page 18

Coal Is Back!

Reboy Coal Dennis Coal Maple & Jamison Rd 7987 #5 Rd West Elma, NY Fabius, NY (WNY) (CNY) 716-652-4321 315-677-9383

1800 Dale Road Buffalo, NY 14225 (716)892-8434

UPSTATE STEEL INC.

For Sale– Post vise and small anvil. Call Rick LaClair 716-839-1922.

For Sale– 4”x 4” x 3/4” steel plate with 1” sq hole in center. Also parts for treadle hammer. Contact Al Butlak 716 -894-7185

For Sale– Gas forges– single burner : $125 For Sale– 3 post vices of different sizes double burner: $225 and a small round farriers forge. Please Also “Bob Trout” gate fullers: $35 contact Bill Bamberg - 716-625-9072. Call Scott Oliver 716-256-9978

Contact your Forge master for club merchandise for sale. NYSDB Page 19

Membership Application The New York State Designers Blacksmith’s

Name ______Phone ______

Address ______City ______

Phone ______

Do you want your phone number on the membership lists? Yes / No

What areas of blacksmithing are you interested in? (Please check all that apply) Ornamental Tool Making Knifemaking Colonial Reproduction General Forging Other ______

Do you have a: Forge Power Hammer

Are you a: Full time smith Part time smith Hobby smith Beginner

Dues are $20 per year & initiation fee of $10. Multiple years accepted. Included also are 4 issues of the An- vil’s Chorus are published about Jan 30 / April 30 / July 30 / Oct 30. Send completed form, checks payable to NYSBD and remittance to:

Dick Rightmeyer, Treasurer 251 Leibeck Road Churchville, NY 14428

ABANA Membership Application

Includes a subscription to The Anvil’s Ring and the Hammer’s Blow Primary ABANA Chapter Affiliation

Name ______Phone ______

Address ______City ______

State ______Zip ______Prov. ______Code ______

Indicate type of membership applying for: New member Renewal member

Regular membership $45.00 Full Time student $35.00 Senior Citizen $40.00 Contributory Member $100.00 Overseas Airmail $80.00 Public Library $35.00 Overseas Surface mail $60.00

CHECKS & MONEY ORDERS ENCLOSED (Written on US Bank Only)

Visa MasterCard ______/ ______/ ______/ ______Expiration _____/_____

Send to: ABANA PO Box 846 Farmington, GA 30638 New York State Designer Blacksmiths Al Butlak, Newsletter Editor 1351 Walden Ave Buffalo, NY 14211-2826 Return Service Requested

The Anvil’s Chorus

Remember! Genesse region: Meetings are held 3rd Saturday of the month Rush, NY Jan.- Journeyman Project– Collaring jigs, forming and placing collars. Feb.- Journeyman Project– Rosettes and fancy rivets. Mar.- Journeyman Project– tooling required and forging quatrefoils. Niagara Region: Jan 5 - Al Butlak's shop - Journeyman program -Drifting, hot cut splitting, swaging Working on the Ring project for Conference 2002 - Making the frame Feb 2 - Al Butlak's shop- Journeyman program - Heading bolts and rivets, grinding, drilling and tapping Working on the Ring project for Conference 2002 - Making the frame March 2 or 3 - Location to be advised-Journeyman program - Jigs and Fixtures Working on the Ring project for Conference 2002 - Casting Brass Lettering Mohawk region: Meets the 2nd Saturday of the month at the Chittenango Barge Canal Museum Chittenango, NY At this time no meetings scheduled till March. Southern Tier region: Dec 16– Bill Banker’s house– Dish to pass dinner, exchange a door knocker you made, plus a gift for the Chinese X-mas Jan 20– John Fee’s– Jointery, mortise and tenon and collars. Feb 17– John Fee’s- Demo by Pete Robinson the wheelwright from VA. Subject: TBA Mar 17– Charlie Orlando– Making and decorating a couple types of hinges. Adirondack region: Rotating schedule and site location To get your schedule of events on this page, please forward them to us! E-mail any articles and/ or pictures to us at [email protected] or snail mail them to: Al Butlak, 1351 Walden Ave. Buffalo, NY 14211 Please submit any input to the editor! We need you thoughts! Thanks!