The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades celebrates, preserves, and promotes the art of bladesmithing and historic trades, and the birth of the iconic Bowie Knife in Historic Washington. Students at the school will study the art and science of Bladesmithing, Forging, Handles and Guards, Damascus Steel, and more.
The James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades is unique in the University of Arkansas System, and reflects the same quality and commitment to excellence in student learning that is the centerpiece of the missions of both the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana and the University of Arkansas System. Become a part of a campus where history, art, and skill are celebrated and preserved.
The James Black School is located at Historic Washington State Park, 601 Lawrence Street, Washington, Arkansas.
For-Credit Certificate of Proficiency
Certificate of Proficiency-Bladesmithing Degree Plan
Application for the Certificate of Proficiency in Bladesmithing Program
Non-Credit Community Classes
Community Education Bladesmithing Classes
Application for Non-Credit Bladesmithing Classes
Spring 2023 Schedule
| Class | Instructor | Dates | Days | Start | End |
| Bushcraft | Rhea | March 24-25 | Friday and Saturday | 8:00AM | 4:30PM |
| Hunting Knife | Vilar | March 27-30 | Thursday-Monday | 8:00AM | 4:30PM |
| Intro to Blacksmithing | Nations | April 15-16 | Saturday and Sunday | 8:00AM | 4:30PM |
| Bowie Kit Class | Vilar | April 24-28 | Monday-Friday | 8:00AM | 4:30PM |
| Bushcraft Knife and Striker | Rhea | June 16-17 | Friday and Saturday | 8:00AM | 4:30PM |
| Advanced Damascus | TBA | November 13-17 | Monday-Friday | 8:00AM | 4:30PM |
