Fort Vancouver's apprentice program | "Traditional" Blacksmithing | Forum

Ok since I've received emails asking for information I'll start by replying in here. Then I'll try to email some other Fort volunteers to add their input. In this I am putting the information out from my point of view, for others to make use of. I am not a professional blacksmith and the apprenticeship program is not a formal apprenticeship program. It is a opportunity to learn and make stuff though. The following is copied out of one of my email replies:

To put it shortly though. the National parks service has volunteer programs where you can volunteer at National parks. Some states also have volunteer programs and events and use volunteers also at their state parks. The process is visit the Fort, request and fill out a volunteer agreement, they run a background check, go to an orientation, get a costume, then get set up with a blacksmith who can start teaching you. (Note there are carpenters, cooks, garden volunteers, and other volunteers both costumed and non costumed.) First couple of things are safety, then start learning the basics. This is a volunteer apprenticeship which includes doing historical interpretation for the park service in return you have the use of the shop to work on period appropriate blacksmithing. This is not an accredited or formal apprenticeship studying under a master. You get out of it what you put in. The best part is the opportunity to learn. There is a training guide along with lists of projects. Much of it is self motivated. Your best bet is to go in with one of the more experienced as a mentor. The park is open every day of the week. It is a national park after all. Most of all it opens up the opportunity to learn and provides tools and a place to learn it.

I personally stress the learn to make and maintain your own tools aspect of the program. Something to remember is these are volunteers, mainly hobbyists teaching other hobbyists. It is different from a professional formal apprenticeship. It is a good opportunity to learn and get started and to help out the community.

Rashelle