Blacksmithing: Flint and Steel

Flint and steel are integral to fire making. As there are many methods to fire starting, the flint Firestarter stands out above the rest.

During this two-hour class, learn how to make a flint and steel Firestarter while also experiencing how to use it to light a primitive fire. You will use a traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience, and learn how to use a simple bending jig. All tools and materials are provided. Learn more about our historic classes.

This class is for individuals ages 13+. Anyone under the age of 16 must register with an adult. 

Purchase Tickets

All Classes are on Fridays: 

January 17: 10:30 a.m.–Noon
January 17: 1p.m.–2:30 p.m.
January 24: 10:30 a.m.–Noon
January 24: 1 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
January 31: 10:30 a.m.–Noon
January 31: 1 p.m.–2:30 p.m.

Location: Modern Blacksmith Shop, location #37 on map

Members: $30 | Nonmembers: $35 (Price is for each class) 

About the Instructor

Nathan Allen was born and raised in Neosho, Missouri, in the Ozark Mountains. From a young age, I had an interest in history and working with my hands. From the time I was in grade school, I had developed a fascination with hand tools and making things in a traditional manner. By junior high, I rigged up a forge, made my own charcoal and began a lifelong interest in blacksmithing that led to an interest in teaching the craft. By High School Shop, I led a group of students in building a coal forge, hammering out, and finishing blades. 

Nathan earned a degree in historic preservation, with an emphasis in historic site administration from Southeast Missouri State University. Nathan’s professional career began as an intern in the Blacksmith Shop at Conner Prairie the summer of 1995. After graduating, he began working full time at Conner Prairie as the manager of the Historic Trades program. Along with blacksmithing, I am also a woodworker and have spent years teaching classes at Conner Prairie. 

Nathan has had the privilege of working directly with some great blacksmiths, including Melvin Lytton, Hershel House, Peter Ross, Tom Latane, Jim Slining, Steve Miller, Tom Clark and Clifton Ralph. His goal in historic trades is to pursue an uncomplicated approach to forging, stressing good ergonomics, proper hammer control and technique and foundational skills. Through his instruction, he has led many classes at Conner Prairie with the purpose that they can be enjoyed by those with just a passing curiosity for the craft or for those who are more serious in pursuing refinement of their skills.