Welcome! We are
Black Horse Forge
Black Horse Forge is a Veteran Non-Profit, Run by Veterans
Blacksmithing
Your commitment, along with your dedication, can take you anywhere.
Our Mission & History
MISSION
Black Horse Forge (BHF) instructs veterans, active duty military, first responders, and their supporters in the art and craft of blacksmithing with the goal of providing a sense of accomplishment, mental and physical well-being, and the knowledge and experience to continue the craft in their own communities.
HISTORY
Black Horse Forge was created in 2018 by Steve Hotz retired as a sergeant and served in the 325th Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division. He provides much of the blacksmithing equipment and is passing down his knowledge of the craft. Steve has been Blacksmithing for 8 Years. He is also on the path to become a Journeyman Knife Maker then onto a Master Bladesmith.
Black Horse Forge Cadre are Veterans, Active Duty along with Law Enforcement. The Black Horse Forge Family consists of the students, volunteers, and talented individuals who make our mission possible.
Black Horse Forge has expanded to include several affiliate forges throughout the United States. Black Horse Forge is also proud to be affiliated with the Veteran Forges in The United Kingdom and Australia.
Classes
We Offer a Variety of Programs for Veterans and Their Families.
Blacksmithing
Learn the basics of blacksmithing from forge and fire control to hammer control. You will learn to forge decorative scrolls, hooks, and other selected projects as time permits
Bladesmithing
An intro to the craft of handmade knives. Students will learn the basics of blade forging, grinding, and heat treatment, as well as how to affix handles to their forged blades.
Tomahawks
Introduction into the craft and construction of tomahawks. Students will create a trade-style tomahawk from scratch using steel, forge welding, grinding, and heat treatment.
Art Jewelry
Emphasizes creative expression and design by using of a variety of materials, often commonplace. Blacksmithing techiques are used to form them into wearable art.
Artistic Metal
The art of executing artistic designs in metal. Create a sculpture, light, table or even a life size draft horse. Create what inspires you. No Limitations just Inspiration.
Home Decor
Learn how to work iron to create useful and beautiful decortive pieces for your home. Hooks, Candle Holders, Bottle Openers, and even Chandeliers are possible
Open Studio
Black Horse Forge is intended to foster creativity and encourage experimentation in an atmosphere of cultural exchange, conversation, encouragement, and freedom of expression.
How to Get Involved
Our goal is to have a positive impact on veterans’ lives and the lives of their supporters. This takes time, patience, and focused caring. We are about the quality of our contribution to their lives more than the quantity of people who come through our program. If you or someone you know are interested in participating in our program, we would love to hear from you, learn where your interests lie, and keep you updated as our program expands. Input from veterans and their supporters will help guide us as we grow.
If you are interested in supporting Black Horse Forge, through donation of supplies, equipment, or financially, we are glad to talk with you about the needs of the forge. We are a 501(c)3 federally recognized nonprofit.
For those who are blacksmiths and are interested in donating your time and talent to help veterans, give us a call or send an email. Special classes, guest talks, and time beside masters of the craft will inspire and fuel a passion for blacksmithing for our veterans and their supporters. We are all about that!
Thank you for your interest! We look forward to hearing from you.
Testimonials
We love to hear how Black Horse Forge has had an effect on those who visit us
“I can’t say enough good things about your company. You are obviously very good at choosing staff. Black Horse Forge Inc is so nice, calls back on time, very organized and good at answering questions.”
— Jeff Daniels, USMC Retired
“Thanks as always for the great service. You guys at Black Horse Forge by far have the best attitude, you made me feel at ease when working on my knife. Keep up the great work!”
— Zach, Owner Drop shot Outdoors
“My experience with working with veterans in blacksmithing has shown so many positive results. Giving back to my military family along with providing the tools to succeed our essentail elements at Black Horse Forge.”
— Steve Hotz, Director of Black Horse Forge
Frequently Asked Questions
Serving Our Veteran Community
Who can attend Black Horse Forge?
Veterans, Active Duty Military, Reserve Military, Law Enforcement, EMS, Firefighters and Family . A battle buddy can attend with the participant in most classes. Please contact us for details. All participants must be 18 years or older.
Where are you located?
We are located at 29 Utah Place Ste 107 Fredericksburg, VA 22405
How much does it cost?
There is no cost to attend. Materials and face shields are provided.Participants need to bring eye protection, leather gloves, face mask (homemade is fine), and hearing protection.
Who are the teachers?
Black Horse Forge instructors are veterans and professionals in their respective fields. Guest instructors often come to our forge to teach and they will be announced when a class is offered.
Do I need any special training?
No special training is needed. If you have special needs, please let us know so we can make accommodations. We want you to enjoy yourself and be successful.
What classes are offered?
Classes range from introduction to Blacksmithing, Bladesmithing, Artistic Metal to Jewlery making. We listen to what you want and we will facilitate the training.