The John C. Campbell Folk School is proud to announce that the school’s Clay Spencer Blacksmith Shop is one of four locations appearing on the History Channel’s popular blacksmithing competition show Forged in Fire this fall. The Folk School will host weekly episode screenings on campus, culminating with an end-of-season celebration reception and screening at the Folk Schools Keith House Community Room. They will also bring the three contestants back to Brasstown for a special meet and greet at the school’s Forge After Dark event and auction on November 3^rd and 4^th.

Now in its tenth season, Forged in Fire tests some of the best blacksmiths in the field as they attempt to re-create some of history’s most iconic edged weapons, and it has become one of the most popular and influential shows on The History Channel’s schedule. This time around, the cast and crew are “On The Road,” visiting shops across America to find new contestants and showcase state-of-the-art shops nationwide. The tenth season premieres on Wednesday, October 4 at 9 p.m. Eastern.

The Folk School’s Clay Spencer Blacksmith Shop appears on the season’s third episode, titled “Appalachian Showdown,” airing on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 9 p.m. The Folk School’s Blacksmithing coordinator Elizabeth Belz will appear as a guest judge. The winner from this episode will have the chance to compete against other smiths from across America to determine who will win the ultimate grand prize in the show’s season finale.

For each episode leading up to the final showdown, The Folk School will host screenings starting at 9 p.m. in the Keith House Community Room. These weekly screenings are free and open to the public.

NOTICE: Change in Season Finale Event Details

Due to a change in the show’s start time, we have relocated the season finale event to the John C. Campbell Folk School Community Room.

Date: Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Location: John C. Campbell Folk School, Keith House, Community Room

Event Schedule:

• Reception and screening on campus at the John C. Campbell Keith House in the community room.
• Light food and drinks will be provided.
• Celebrate this momentous occasion with the Folk School starting at 9 p.m.

Admission: This event is free and open to the public.

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the change in location and hope to see you there for an exciting evening. If you have any questions or need further information, please contact us at 828-837-2775.

Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to sharing this special event with you.

On Friday, November 3, and Saturday, November 4, The Folk School will host Forge After Dark, a two-day event illuminating the art of blacksmithing with a nighttime gathering and spirited afternoon auction. Contestants from the Folk School’s episode of Forged in Fire will be in attendance for a special meet and greet and blacksmithing demonstration. The family-friendly event with storytelling, axe-throwing, a BBQ food truck, and folks forging under the stars is free and open to all. Learn more at folkschool.org/forgeafterdark

For more information about screenings and special events, visit folkschool.org or call us at 828-837-2775.