MADISON 2009
Please mark your calendars and plan on attending the 14th Southern Blacksmithing Association Conference. (formerly Southeastern Regional Blacksmithing Conference) to be held in Madison, GA. This is an opportunity for blacksmiths and their families to see and learn from some of the top professionals in the field.
The conference is held every other year, in the odd years. This conference is hosted this year by the Alabama Forge Council (AFC). The seven chapters forming the group and rotate to host the conference are: Alabama Forge Council (AFC), North Carolina Chapter of ABANA, Appalachian Area Chapter of Blacksmiths (AACB), Ocmulgee Blacksmith Guild (OBG), Alex Bealer Blacksmithing Association(ABBA), Philip Simmons Artist-Blacksmith Guild of South Carolina (PSABG) and Florida Artist Blacksmith Association (FABA).
Madison, GA is a beautiful town located located just 1 hour east of Atlanta on I-20. Discover the town that narrowly escaped the wrath of General Sherman and his troops. The small town atmosphere is wonderful to experience. A drive to the town square shows many of the antebellum homes. There are several motels, hotels, and restaurants located in Madison. Visit their website for more information.
The conference is held at the Lions Club Fairgrounds. There are demonstrations, tailgate sales, vendors, family programs, iron work displays (show and tell), iron in the hat (IITH), a live auction and of course an anvil shoot. There is usually a food vendor on site for those who do not want to leave the grounds.
Don’t leave your family at home. There are many talented people teaching small courses. Some of the offerings in the past include broom-tying, basket weaving, stained glass, enameling, and copper roses, just to name a few. Those classes fill early, so get your registration in early.
The tailgate area is a great place to sell those extra tools and items relating to blacksmithing. Tool sales are in a reserved area only. You can shop or sell all day long. This is an excellent place to find that special tool that you have been looking for.
There is a “green coal” class. Which gives a chance for a beginning smith to learn from some wonderful talented smiths.
We hope to see you there!!!!!!