Gary Brown

Gary Brown started blacksmithing around 1980 as a typical backyard enthusiast which complemented his involvement with "living history" events. By 1986 Gary reached a turning point in his life and career and decided "No more trying to reinvent the wheel" and he enrolled in Frank Turley's School of Blacksmithing. Frank Turley was an important influence on Gary and colonial hardware was an area where they shared a special interest. Frank Turley introduced Gary Brown to Donald Streeter, the author of Professional Smithing, and an expert in colonial hardware. This became the foundation Gary's knowledge and practice in forged hardware which he has developed with an additional 20 years of practice. Gary recognizes another friend and great influence as Ken Schwarz of Colonial Williamsburg. While these smiths inspired and taught Gary, he also comments that we have so much talent in our own CBA that we never have far to look for help and inspiration. Gary brings his interest in colonial hardware and a love of teaching to his demonstrations.