The Crosby Arboretum’s Forge Day was a big success according to Patricia Drackett, Arboretum Interim Director.

“The attendance (for this event) has way exceeded our expectations. It was a wonderful day for this and everyone seemed to be really enjoying themselves.” Drackett said.

Local knifemaker, Chuck Robinson, said, “I thought it was very nice, we enjoy working with Pat (Drackett) and the Arboretum, there was a great turn out for the event and we signed up three new members for the Gulf Coast Custom Knifemakers Guild.”

Those in attendance had an opportunity to see a variety of knifemaking techniques demonstrated and try their hand at a few for themselves.

Paul LeBatard, a well known knifemaker from Van Cleeve, said, “Personally, I had a great time, it is real rewarding to take an old file and turn it into something of beauty that will be prized and potentially passed down. I think the people that came out really enjoyed watching us demonstrate our craft.”

Dragons Watch Forge and Foundry owner, Larry House, said, “We had a really good turn out. The number of young people that I got to work with was extremely inspiring. One young man forged his own knife.

“Another young man turned out a steak turner and told everyone he was going to fix his grandmother a steak the next day. There was a wide variety of interest.”