South Street Seaport Museum: Forging Maritime History

Guests can visit the Seaport Museum for public drop-in metalworking demonstrations that delve into the crucial role of blacksmiths during the Age of Sail, both on land and aboard ships at sea. The event will spark interest into the maritime blacksmithing trade and provide visitors with insight into the construction and maintenance of historic vessels, like the 1885 tall ship Wavertree. No registration needed. This activity takes place outdoors at Pier 16 and walk-ups are welcome.  

Professional metalworker and long-time Seaport Museum volunteer Barry Greene will enlighten viewers about the tools and materials employed by smiths. Through live showcases, he will demonstrate the historical art of crafting rivets, spikes, and various tools while highlighting modern reproductions of intriguing artifacts from the Museum’s collection.

Stop by Pier 16 where guests can witness the creation of vital components that held historical wood and iron hulls together. In addition, they will learn about the diverse array of tools created by blacksmiths such as those utilized by the ship’s carpenter, pots and utensils employed by the cook, harpoons and knives used by whalers, and even colossal anchors like those near Bowne & Co. Stationers. With such a rich history to explore, these experiences promise an immersive journey into the blacksmiths of maritime past and present.