Burnaby Village Museum

Embrace An Ancient Technology at Burnaby Village Museum

If you’ve ever fantasized about wielding a hammer and tongs, then the Burnaby Village Museum (BVM) in Burnaby, Canada, is your dream come true. Offering a comprehensive range of blacksmithing workshops, BVM is the ultimate playground for both aspiring and seasoned blacksmiths.

For the Newbies

The museum offers introductory courses tailored for those who have never so much as touched an anvil. These courses cover the basics of safety, coal forge operation, and the creation of simple household items. The introductory courses are a prerequisite for any advanced workshops at the museum. Options include a 4-hour “Blacksmithing: Basic” course, a 6-hour “Blacksmithing: Immersion” course, and “Forging Fridays or Forging for Youth,” which is open only to youngsters aged 13-16.

For the Somewhat Skilled

Once you’ve got the basics down, you can proceed to intermediate courses. These workshops allow you to work on projects that match your skill level while practicing essential techniques. Courses include “Blacksmithing: Forge Welding,” “Blacksmithing: Hooks, Hangers & Plant Holders,” and even “Blacksmithing: Letter Opener” and “Blacksmithing: Tool Making.”

For the Virtually Viking

If you’re already comfortable at the forge, BVM offers advanced courses that include making ornamental door pulls, handy hardware, and even ornamental animal heads. These courses are open to anyone aged 16 and above.

For the Seasoned Smith

For those who have completed at least three previous courses or have equivalent experience, there’s the “Blacksmithing: Open Forge” course. This is designed for blacksmiths who either lack their own forge or would like some guidance while working on personal projects.

Courses are available throughout the year on select weekends and weekday evenings. For an up-to-date list of courses, you can visit WebReg: Burnaby.ca/WebReg. Custom requests? Reach out to BVM Programmer, Ashley Jones, at Ashley.Jones@burnaby.ca.

So, whether you’re a novice looking to dip your toes into the world of blacksmithing or a seasoned smith seeking to hone your skills, Burnaby Village Museum offers a course that’s just right for you.