Hello I'm Moose:
For as long as I can remember, I have lived in a world of imagination and creativity! As a child, I would run about our small acreage swinging a stick “sword” at trees and snowdrifts. I distinctly remember taking my father’s hammer and a length of copper pipe and trying to make swords for my brother and me. I also remember many trips to the library to read books about swords and knives and creating thousands of drawings, paintings, and songs.
Childhood changed into adulthood, and many of those daydreams of a fantasy world faded into responsibilities and anxiety. Life had stopped making sense, and I felt like an outsider to nearly everyone I met. In 2016 I picked up a smithing hammer for the first time. That simple act rekindled a passion for history and creativity. From that day on, I dreamed of owning my own forge and creating anything I wanted!
In 2020 I received several diagnoses that changed my perspective forever. ADHD, PTSD, and Autism. Finally, I had answers to self-doubt and poor self-worth; I had the names for everything that had been holding me back. With a renewed passion for discovering myself and making beautiful things again, I purchased my own forge, anvil, and hammers. Today I use the forge not only to heal and focus but also to provide for my family through hard work and art.
What I do:
As a smith and historic educator, I have recaptured my sense of wonder and creativity by working with several groups/events. I attended my first renaissance fair in 2019 and found a place where my passions could take root, and I could live my childhood dreams once again! Now I teach the history of smithing, give blacksmithing demonstrations, and create products from desk toys to knives and armor.
Groups/Events I work(ed) with
- 2022 - Current: Guardians of the Black Forest
- 2020 - 2021: Free Company of the White Stag
- 2022 - Current: The Iowa State Fair (Pioneer Hall)
- 2020 - Current: Renaissance Fairs across 3 states (Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas City)
My Events:
2023 Events
- January 7, 2023 - Intro to Bladesmithing Class
- Spring, 2023 - Events limited due to family needs