The historic Bally Blacksmith Shop in Grand Marais is hosting the First Annual Bally Blacksmithing Demonstrations two weekends this summer: July 24-25 and July 31-Aug. 1. These demonstrations are free and open to the public, and will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the historic 1911 building. Visitors will also have the chance to walk inside the original building.
Blacksmithing is fascinating to watch. Skilled workers will heat metal to extreme temperatures and shape objects by banging and twisting them right before your eyes. They will produce functional and decorative items – some of which will be for sale.
Local metal workers will demonstrate their talents on the designated Fridays, and the Duluth organization Forging Community will lead the Saturday demonstrations— thanks to a grant from the Grand Marais Area Tourism Association.
Cook County Historical Society representatives will be on hand each day to talk about the history of the Bally site, share the future site plans, record stories and testimonies, and provide a sneak peek inside the 1911 Bally Blacksmith Shop, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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