Meet George Pare, Blacksmith
Blacksmiths were among the most important tradespeople in a Colonial community. Most colonists could take care of many of the basic things they needed to survive, such as grow their own food, make their own clothing, and build their own homes. But blacksmithing is a unique skill. It requires specific tools, access to a forge, and knowledge of how to bend metal into useful shapes. It also requires great strength and stamina.
Colonial trades such as blacksmithing are kept alive today by trained artisans. George Pare is one of those skilled artisans. He relies on many of the same techniquesthe replica of the original ship that brought the first English settlers to Massachusetts. talked with Pare about his path to becoming a blacksmith and the role of blacksmiths in the Colonial era. You can learn more about George Pare and his work at .
