The Simsbury Historical Society is launching introductory blacksmithing classes starting in October 2025. Classes will take place at the Griswold & Ensign Blacksmith Shop on the historical society grounds. Built in 2024, the blacksmith shop is fully functional and built to modern code. Adults (ages 18 and over) are invited to discover the satisfaction of working with their hands to create something durable and lasting. Classes will be taught by an experienced instructor, Paul Spirito, who has been selected to serve as the historical society’s dedicated, resident blacksmith.
“I’m thrilled to work with the Simsbury Historical Society,” stated Paul Spirito. “This class is the ideal starting point for beginners, introducing the foundational skills of this ancient craft.”
By the end of the 3-hour introductory class, students will know the basics of forge safety and proper handling of tools and materials. They will practice core forging techniques and learn to manage the forge fire to properly heat steel. Class size will be limited to 4 students. Two morning (9 am – noon) sessions will be offered: Saturday, October 11 and Saturday, October 18. Class fee is $95; safety equipment is required but not included. Additional introductory sessions and more advanced classes may be offered later in the year, weather permitting, and repeated in Spring 2026, depending on community interest. Download the class description.
The public is invited to view blacksmithing demonstrations at the Griswold-Ensign Blacksmith Shop on Saturday, September 20 from 11 – 2 p.m. For more information about introductory blacksmithing classes, please email paulspirito@gmail.com.
About the Instructor
Paul Spirito began his career as an industrial designer in the toy industry, working for a consulting firm where he was involved in all aspects of toy product development. His work ranged from brainstorming new ideas and model making to prototype development, design, and manufacturing. In 2007, Paul completed his MFA in Puppet Arts at UConn and was hired as the Puppetry Technical Supervisor for the growing Puppet Arts department.
Paul is currently Administrator at UConn’s Krenicki Arts and Engineering Institute where he leads collaborative innovations combining entertainment engineering and industrial design with the College of Engineering and School of Fine Arts. Outside of his professional life, Paul practices the craft of blacksmithing. He has studied under leading artist-blacksmiths and has taught numerous beginner workshops. For Paul, crafting functional objects from steel is a source of joy and creative fulfillment.
About The Simsbury Historical Society (SHS)
Established in 1911, Simsbury Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Simsbury, Connecticut, a picturesque New England town founded in 1670. SHS owns and maintains twelve historic and modern buildings and structures on nearly three acres of grounds with period gardens and native plantings in the Simsbury Center Historic District, making it unique among local historical societies in size and scope. It offers community activities and programs for all ages throughout the year. Hours of operation are Thursday through Saturday from noon to 4:00 p.m. Public tours of about 45 minutes duration are offered Saturdays at 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Group tours and research assistance are available by appointment. For more information, visit simsburyhistory.org.