The Blacksmith's Source Book: An Annotated Bibliography

This unique annotated bibliography lists nearly 300 books on the art of blacksmithing. It is divided into four parts: Practical Black­smithing, Specialized Areas of Blacksmithing, Historical Background of the Profession, and Products of the Forge.

Part 1 deals with the technical side of blacksmithing: the texts, manuals, and courses aimed at teaching the basic pro­cesses. It includes reference books on the materials of blacksmithing and on metallurgy.

Part 2 presents the more specialized and advanced processes of blacksmithing, includ­ing ornamental ironwork, farm smithing, industrial forging, and bladesmithing. It also includes materials related to pattern-welded Damascus steel.

The listings in part 3 deal with black­smithing as a literary and historical subject. The primary focus of these books is on the traditions, lore, and descriptions of the trade. In these books the processes, tools, and prod­ucts are of only secondary importance.

Part 4 lists books that treat the products of the forge, a wide-ranging area that covers everything from tools and utensils to archi­tectural works. A special feature of this section is a chapter emphasizing individual smiths and their works. The book also con­tains two indexes, one an alphabetical listing by author and one an alphabetical listing by title.

James Fleming is a practicing blacksmith at Yonna Valley Forge in Bonanza, Oregon.