Welcome to the
Appalachian Area Chapter of Blacksmiths
The Appalachian Area Chapter of Blacksmiths (AACB) is dedicated to preserving and promoting the exciting art of blacksmithing. Our mission is to educate, inspire, and bring together blacksmiths of all ages and experience levels—men and women, beginners and masters alike.
Founded in 1965 by Jud Nelson, Joe Humble, Joe Neely, A.P. Billingsley, and Bill Planzer, AACB is a nonprofit organization and a proud affiliate of the Artist-Blacksmith’s Association of North America (ABANA). For more than 60 years, we have supported the blacksmithing community across the region.
Membership Benefits
AACB members receive our highly regarded AACB Newsletter, packed with event announcements, informative articles, drawings, and photos that keep you connected and inspired throughout the year.
Local Forge Groups
We host hands-on demonstrations, workshops, and classes at local shops—known as forge groups—throughout Tennessee, Southern Kentucky, and Western North Carolina. These forge groups meet regularly and offer additional activities and learning opportunities. Visit the Forge Groups section of our website to find meeting times, locations, and contacts for a forge near you.
Regional Meetings & Events
Throughout the year, AACB hosts Regional Meetings featuring blacksmithing demonstrations, great food, general meetings, and our popular Iron-in-the-Hat drawings. Some meetings also include live auctions of donated items and family-friendly activities. Check out our Typical Yearly Schedule and plan to attend an event soon!
Conferences
Each May, we participate in one of the following conferences:
AACB Conference at Cannonsburgh Pioneer Village in Murfreesboro, TN (even-numbered years).
Southeastern Blacksmith Association (SBA) Conference in Madison, GA (odd-numbered years). AACB is proud to be one of seven regional SBA chapters that help host this outstanding event.
Join the Fun
With so many opportunities to learn, connect, and create, there’s always something happening at AACB. We invite you to become part of our community—visit the Join/Renew section to become a member and pay online today.
