Blacksmith Grand Opening

The Saratoga Historical Foundation is pleased to announce the grand opening of its new blacksmith exhibit on Saturday May 18 from l to 4. The public is invited to attend.

To celebrate the new building there will be live blacksmithing demonstrations on the patio.  The new exhibit focuses on the basics of blacksmithing and the importance of blacksmithing skills for farmers in the period between 1850 and 1940. In addition to providing information on blacksmithing, tools of the trade, and its relationship to farm life, the exhibit includes film and also includes historic photographs. 

A blacksmith is a metalsmith who creates objects from wrought iron or steel by forging the metal, using tools to hammer, bend and cut.  Blacksmiths had a general knowledge of how to make and repair many things. They could produce objects such as gates, tools, agricultural implements, and cooking utensils.

The blacksmith played a very important role in the community. He was a metal smith, a farrier, a mechanic, a handyman, a neighbor and a friend.

The museum complex brings history to life with its museum, the McWilliams historic home, Interurban passenger stop, one-room school house and blacksmith shop. During the school year pioneer living classes are provided for grades 2-5.  Docents attired in period clothing provide the flavor and spirit of pioneer living.

The blacksmith building was designed by local architect Steve Benzing.  He designed the building with a false front Western style.  Ernie Kraule, project manager, oversaw the design.  Ernie Kraule, the vice president of the Saratoga Historical Foundation has experience with buildings—he managed the building of the current fire department.  

The mission of the Saratoga Historical Foundation is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of Saratoga for the education of the community.  Popular lectures, programs on local history and walking tours are also provided. The Saratoga Historical Foundation is located at 20450 Saratoga-Los Gatos Road. The buildings are open 1-4 on Friday and Sunday and Saturday 10-4. For more information go to www.saratogahistory.com or call 408-867-4311.