Grand Detour hosts Hammer In 2010

Rick Trahan, resident blacksmith at the John Deere Historic Site, and dozens of other blacksmiths will demonstrate their profession during Hammer In 2010 at the John Deere Historic Site Aug. 7-8.

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GRAND DETOUR — When most people hear the name “John Deere,” it typically brings to mind large green and yellow machinery with the iconic leaping deer logo. However, John Deere is not only a company name; it is also the name of the gifted blacksmith who founded the company. To celebrate the blacksmith’s trade, the John Deere Historic Site in Grand Detour is hosting Hammer In 2010, a two-day event expected to be one of the largest of its kind in the region. On Aug. 7-8, many blacksmiths from the Midwest will fill the grounds of the John Deere Historic Site to provide demonstrations, sell their work, and introduce the public to one of the oldest trades in our country.

The John Deere Historic Site held its first Hammer In event in 2004, with 75 blacksmiths, attracting thousands from around the country. A replica of John Deere’s 1837 self-scouring plow was constructed for that event using traditional tools and techniques. The plow is now displayed in the Historic Site’s archaeological exhibit area.

The theme for this year’s event is “Blacksmith, the Master Craftsmen.”

“Not only did the blacksmith make the iron products of the day, but they also fashioned the tools needed for many other trades as well,” said Rick Trahan, John Deere Historic Site resident blacksmith. “Blacksmiths were essential to the pioneer way of life, and we look forward to celebrating their history and their modern day existence.”

In addition to blacksmithing, other tradesman will be on hand exhibiting their skills and selling their wares including basket weavers, broom makers, gunsmiths, trappers, wheelwrights, woodwrights and more.

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, visitors will see how blacksmiths and other tradesmen mold and craft their wares into works of art and household goods. Many of the products for sale during the event will be made on location.

Food vendors will be on site and a charity auction will also take place at 1 p.m. Aug. 7. Proceeds from the auction will be divided between the Upper Midwest Blacksmith and Illinois Valley Blacksmith Associations, both event sponsors.

A special raffle will offer one lucky winner a week-long course of their choice at the John C. Campbell Folk School in North Carolina. The prize includes guaranteed class registration, course fee and room and board for the week.

Admission is $5 for 12 years and older; children under 12 are free. For more information, contact the John Deere Historic Site at 815-652-4551. The site is located five miles north of Dixon on Route 2 (between Dixon and Oregon).