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– James Black School of Bladesmithing

James Black School of Bladesmithing Logo

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

Directions:

Upcoming Events

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UAHT closes to the pubic at noon on Fridays during the summer.  Regular hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) will resume Friday, August 4.