UA Hope-Texarkana James Black School Offering Free Class for Vets

Do you know a veteran who would love to learn about bladesmithing? Here is a wonderful opportunity for them and it's free of charge. The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Foundation is hosting a free bladesmithing course for veterans at the James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades.

This special “thank you for your service” event will take place from Monday, November 4 until Friday, November 8, from 8 AM to 5 PM.

UAHT

The class is exclusively for veterans, and only eight spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. In a press release, Jennifer Teresa, Dean of Technical Programs and Director of the Bladesmithing School said,

We are thankful for the sacrifices of our veterans, and this is just one small way we can give back.

Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash

Participants will learn hands-on skills such as grinding, heat treating, and tempering a blade. They will also work with a Bowie knife kit to explore the finishing process of knife-making.

Photo by Raul Barrios on Unsplash

James R. Cook, an accomplished bladesmith from Nashville, Arkansas, will teach the course. Cook is a member of both the Arkansas Knife Makers Association and the American Blade Smith Society. He was recognized as an Arkansas Living Treasure and earned his Master Smith rating in 1991. His work has been featured in knife publications, and he has received multiple awards for his craftsmanship.

Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash

There is limited space available for the course so you need to register soon. You can register online or by phone and find out more details by calling (870) 722-8109.

The James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades is located at 601 Lawrence St, Washington, AR 71862. For additional information, check out James Black School.

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