Blacksmithing in the 1700's: A Conversation with Simeon England | The School of the Longhunter

Explore the art of 1700s blacksmithing with Peter, as he visits Prickett Fort in West Virginia. Here he interviews master blacksmith Simeon England at the School of the Longhunter. Dive into the intricacies of historical blacksmith shops and discover the craftsmanship behind 18th century period weapons like pipe tomahawks. This video offers a unique look into the role of blacksmiths on the American frontier. Join us for an educational journey through early North American history, complete with live demonstrations and expert interviews. Learn about the traditional tools and techniques that define the blacksmithing craft, ensuring these ancient skills are preserved as artifacts of tomorrow. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a craftsmanship admirer, or curious about historical reenactments, this video is a must-watch!
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📺 Featuring: Peter Kelly
🎥 Cinematography, Production & Editing: Catherine Wolfe
🎵 Music Courtesy Of: Richard Fortier and Al MacDonald
Thumbnail and description: Shane Kelly
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#Blacksmith #HistoricalDIY #AmericanHistory #ColonialHistory #EarlySettlers #SelfSufficiency #Homesteading #LivingHistory #CanadianHistory #Blacksmithing #HistoricalReenactment #PrickettFort

[@claudeoverstreet8791]

Another wonderful video! This was my third year at the “School Of The Longhunter,“ and it was a great pleasure to interact with both you and Simeon England. Such interesting people you meet at that event. I enjoyed all of Simeon’s lectures and handiwork. For the second time, I stopped by Martin’s Station, the frontier fort where he practices his craft. Sadly, it was an open yet and he wasn’t there the first time I stopped last year.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@larryreese6146]

Greatly enjoyed the video. Thank you, Peter. True story: The blacksmith trade was alive and going strong around here in the early 1900s. The timber industry was going strong and blacksmiths kept the horses shod and the wagons rolling. 2 blacksmiths were working side by side on some project One was cross eyed and he was pounding away with a big hammer. The other fellow asked him, "do you hit where you look?" "Of course." " That's what I thought. Think I'll move a little further over."

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You’ve given my first hearty laugh of the day.

[@martinmeltzer2696]

Hey Peter! What an illuminating conversation with Mr. England! I was surprised at the smallness of the tomahawk head... but I suppose when it had a "specialized" purpose and ONLY that purpose... it's a lot like the British Commando Fighting Knives of WWII... not much good at anything else... but absolutely PERFECT for what it was designed to do! Well Done to both of you!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Indeed and I wouldn’t want to have Simeon coming at me with its intended use in mind.

[@martinmeltzer2696]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Or ANYONE else for that matter! At least without a loaded pistol in either hand! Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha!

[@jeffgrier8488]

That was a fantastic interview, i really enjoyed it. Thanks for taking the time to do it, and i got a history lesson as always.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I’m glad you thought so. We appreciate your interest.

[@seanparsons8987]

Greetings from California, grew up near Watertown. Watching these videos makes me miss New York forests and countryside.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you like them!

[@jdog881688]

Thank you Peter for the very informative interview. Fantastic! Cheers!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@dianeneilands5604]

Great video as usual. Awesome discussion, loved the story about the draw knife, makes me wonder about the history of the draw knife you just got. Have to agree about the idea of not making exact replicas of original items for similar reasons but also to avoid those who many years from now, perhaps would try to pass a handmade exact replica, off as an original.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You raise good points. As to wondering about the history of old things, I never pick up a tool or my old violin without wonder where it came from, who used it and what is it’s story.

[@robinbonaventura4951]

Two great teachers!!! Thank you Mr. Pete!!!!Take care...Robin

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

If your ranking in there with the master than that is a very fine compliment. Take care as well.

[@lancehenderson7249]

Interesting history lesson, somehow thought that a tomahawk was larger. Guess they would come in different sizes. I got my cousins tomahawk that he had in Vietnam, asked him what it was like there, and all he said was, I was there. Nothing else. Never asked him again.Rather thick man and well informative about blacksmithing. Strange that he is barefoot. You can tell that the shop has seen a lot of use. It's great that we got two videos in one week. I don't know anything about blacksmithing, so these videos are great. Keep your powder dry

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Not only is Simeon a great blacksmith he’s tough to boot. I’ve never seen him in moccasins. Watch yer top knot.

[@victortuten4399]

Two peas in a pod! Until just a couple of years ago I always thought of a tomahawk as a hatchet. A hatchet that they would use as a weapon when caught unawares or away from a "real" weapon. I am guessing it was the Hollywood influence and all those movies I watched. Researching it really opened my eyes to a different tool altogether. Convincing folks that the head was smaller than a hatchet with a longer handle just gets me that glazed look. Now I can talk about the material availability and working with what they had. It probably won't make a bit of difference. Bless their Hearts!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Perhaps it will help with your argument… keep on educating regardless,it all helps.

[@elwoodtaylor1092]

fascinating for sure and a great history lesson as well thank you all

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@mikesherman4565]

Again thank you for continuing the saga of the school of the longhunters

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Our pleasure!

[@daveyjoweaver6282]

How little we know of the connection with our own Mother Earth and surviving in the wilds. To Europeans it was wild but to the Indigenous it was home and their back yard. It’s hard to imagine having to do with little or nothing and making do. A small piece of iron was very precious at one time. And learning about these things and our True history is precious as well. Thank You Peter and to the Master Blacksmith. Many Blessings! DaveyJO in Pennsylvania

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We’ve certainly have moved away from those simple times and I like to attempt keeping them alive.

[@daveyjoweaver6282]

@@TheWoodlandEscape You and Kathy do a Fine Job keeping these things alive very skillfully! Thank You!

[@8626John]

Great discussion. Thanks for posting it.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

My pleasure!

[@richardofsylmar]

Thank you, Peter and Cathy for another wonderful video.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@jameshall5784]

I absolutely love the history and historical references in your videos Peter!!! Thank you again for another incredible video !!!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

My pleasure, thanks for your interest.

[@jackcook8613]

Thanks again, Peter for a great video. Simeon is one of the premier history educators as yourself in the world of 18th century history.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That is indeed a flattering compliment, sir.

[@rickcooper6817]

Very much enjoyed your interview with Mr. Simeon. He's such a very talented blacksmith. Thanks again Mr. Peter for sharing.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

He is indeed and simply a very nice fellow.

[@marieleopold1625]

W O W !!! You've spoiled us Peter! 2 lovely vids in one week! Thanks muchly 4 not letting us wait another week 4 part 2. I can see 'why' you enjoy these gatherings, as they are akin to people being pieces of a puzzle (the past) that come together to create the reality of yesterdays. You could spend your life going from one to another of these gatherings and not get much done on the homestead = YIKES! It only proves how well-organized both you and your fine Empress Catherine are at 'timing' your outings, chores, hunts etc. The fine tomahawk displayed makes me think of all the 'occasions' in which they were wielded and the 'attitudes' behind the wielding..."Courage is fear holding on a minute longer." (George S. Patton). Health and Blessings dear ones! Hopefully warmer temps will bring the return of beloved 'George'! LOL! :)

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you were surprised by the two… gotta change things up a wee bit once in a while. I’d believe Patton is spot on, sadly many a solder is gone due to that brief time lapse. As always, Marie, your comments always brighten our day!

[@earlshaner4441]

Good morning brother and everyone from Syracuse NY USA

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

And to you, Earl.

[@earlshaner4441]

Hi my friend everyone that I shared your video with love your videos

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@@earlshaner4441 we are very flattened,Earl

[@earlshaner4441]

You and everyone is welcome

[@NW_Ranger]

Thank you!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You're welcome!

[@kingrafa3938]

A great interview!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you.

[@zpy-nq7wv]

I HAVE AN ANVIL THAT HAS BEEN IN THE FAMILY FOR 6 GENERATIONS . IT WAS USED TO SHOE HORSES ( AND MAKE OTHER ITEMS ) DURING THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION AS WELL DOING THE SAME FOR THE CONFEDERACY DURING THE CIVIL WAR.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Wow, now that’s a keepsake!

[@beverlymichael5830]

Really great interview. It really makes you stop and think how hard it was just to make something back then when we can run to the hardware store now. My grandpa did not make nails but coming through the depression I watched him straighten nails he had reclaimed. Pounding them on a piece rod rail from a railroad. I still have that section of rail. I save used screws I have removed. I dont straighten nails. Maybe I should.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Old dog here, my father straightened every nail pulled and I’m keeping up the family tradition. Thanks for the compliment.

[@jeffersonspace]

Thanks for the video. Fascinating interview

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@martihetrick609]

Thank you gentlemen for aswome video.from mrs.outhouse

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@smoothvern165]

This was so interesting! I love these interviews!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it! We’ll have to do more.

[@phil4620]

Love the history. Thank You

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@donnanorman340]

Good morning Peter. Thanks for another wonderful history lesson. Have a good weekend. 💛 from 🇨🇦

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You are very welcome

[@ryanstottlemyer5698]

Fantastic!!!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@MelanieSawyerForager]

I loved listening to all the information and ponderings you both gave, very enjoyable

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jeremiahmccutcheon3234]

Peter thank you for this video. I love it

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You are very welcome

[@johnlea8519]

Another fascinating video, Peter you sure know some very interesting fellas with quite an in-depth knowledge of 18th century living. The learning never stops or becomes dull..👍

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

If we’re not learning, we’re dead. I could listen to Simeon till the cows come home.

[@will76888]

Facinating video! Thanks for sharing!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@terrynoraturner1848]

Excellent.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Many thanks!

[@ianandresen2326]

Great video! Thank you! Fantastic weekend as well!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you! You too! Meant to say good buy, but missed you.

[@SveninColorado]

Outstanding dialogue!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you.

[@armadilloforge]

Very educational!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you.

[@williamqueen8790]

Awesome video. My grandfather was a black smith and this give me an idea what he did from day to day.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I’ve no doubt your grandfather was a busy man!

[@robertcurns3845]

thanks again!! Hope to talk to Simeon at Ft.Loudon in Pa., in June.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You’ll not be disappointed, he’s one interesting man with a strong compassion for Colonial history.

[@robdixon7732]

Great video. I met Simeon once down there at Martin's Station. Great guy. Made me some nails! That man never wears shoes. Lol.

[@InfamousWolf89]

Not even when it gets cold?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Yup, a fine artisan and tough to boot!

[@user-yg6jx3oc7e]

Great video

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@lawrencekeller6029]

Great video Peter that was a nice looking hawk. Be safe sir.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks 👍. His work is amazingly good.

[@hayward434]

Hello Peter, You could not see me, but I was right there in Simeon's shop with you.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I felt your spirit, Hayward!

[@donwaldroopoutdoors3665]

From a ky native very cool and interesting

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you.

[@francicrownoble9150]

I'm sure you've answered this before, but I can't find the answer. Why do you wear the straps below your knees? Thanks!! I love your show!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

They are called legging ties. Almost universally sworn in the era of the 1700’s. The common pants of the period were knee beeches and to protect both their legs and the material of the pants, legging were worn. They have a garter to hold then to the waist and legging ties to keep them from spinning around on the leg.

[@eddybear771]

Lost count, but after about 3 or so months, I'm all caught up Buddy.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Great effort, but I’m sorry to say we released one today, so your behind once again, lol.

[@eddybear771]

@@TheWoodlandEscape 🤣

[@johnclarke6647]

It is hard for me to believe a blacksmith is walking around his blacksmith shop, barefooted. I can just imagine how many hot cinders are floating around.

[@johnclarke6647]

Did you know that the English forbade the colonials from even making shovels, so they had to depend upon the Mother Country to get these products. The colonials inability to fabricate guns, axes, shovels, etc, also reduced the possibility of their revolting against the mother country. I am sure this was in the back of the minds of the English, when they passed these regulations.

[@aboelyn]

Can you discuss how swords were made?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That’s an interesting idea for a future episode… thanks for planting the seed.

[@paulfrizzell31]

👍

[@jamesellsworth9673]

Even a small tomahawk would be useful in chopping off small dead wood for a fire to cook with or to sleep close to. One could limb evergreens to make a browse bed.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Lots of uses indeed.

[@jamesvatter5729]

Simeon is one of those folks involved in this "addiction" I'd really like to meet.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

He’s a fascinating and talented historian.

[@jtsterry]

❤😊😊

[@milliebanks7209]

Ok Peter, why is this young man barefoot? Bet his feet get cold and he picks up a ton of thotms and stickers.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Simeon is tough as the nails he walks on, I’ve never seen him in moccasins.