BLACKSMITHING PLAYED A VITAL ROLE in establishing communities along the Texas frontier, but also during war when soldiers must maintain and repair their own equipment (such as wagon wheels, horseshoes, and cannons.) Visitors will have the opportunity to learn some blacksmithing history, handle reproduction pieces of the era, and participate in a smithing exercise. Participants will be able to learn various techniques by manipulating 'air-tempered' clay (as a substitute for crude steel and iron) with traditional trade tools on an anvil, cultivating greater insight and appreciation for this heritage craft.
Suitable for kids aged 5 and up; younger children are welcome but will need to have an adult to help. This activity is free with purchase of an adult ticket to the San Jacinto Museum. On San Jacinto Family Day, kids are admitted for free when accompanied by a parent or grandparent.