LA GRANGE — The second annual Texas Blacksmith Conference & the Hume L. Baker Texas Antique Gas Engine Reunion will be held Friday and Saturday, Jan. 27-28 at the Texas Czech Heritage & Cultural Center’s Czech Village grounds in La Grange, beginning at noon on Friday and 9 a.m. on Saturday. This event continues to grow and we hope to make this year’s event even better!
There are many shows geared towards antique tractors, but none that are solely for the interest of the antique stationary engines, until now! The show will feature gas, steam, hot air, and oil engines operating, and some powering equipment. The show is named in memory of long time engine collector and restorer Hume L Baker of Sheridan, Texas. Hume’s dedication to the mechanics of the restoration and eye for detail is known all over Texas’ antique farm shows. Before his passing in 2018, Mr. Baker, as he was known, dispersed of his 40+ collection to other collectors and enthusiasts, sharing the love of his hobby with so many to ensure its future. The South Texas Wheel Spinners & Crank Twisters Club will be the hosting Club for this show.
The Blacksmith Conference had been held in College Station in the past, but in 2021, time had come for it to be revamped. The Texas Trio Group came together to revive this event and, like the engines, fire-up interest in this amazing art! They chose to come to La Grange and utilize the TCHCC Village, partnering with the STWSCT Club, for a new event that has definitely sparked interest in all generations! Blacksmithing demonstrations along with vendors and other pieces of interest will be on going both days. On Saturday, TV show Forged in Fire champion Mark Sperry will be the featured blacksmith, presenting two sessions. An iron smelt will also be burning all day Saturday and pulled at the conclusion of the event, about 4 to 5 p.m.
The TCHCC and Village will be open for touring. The Zapalac Saw Mill and the Czech Newspapers Museum will be in operation. Concessions will also be available. A live auction will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday with special handmade blacksmith items to top the list! Musical entertainment playing classic country throughout the day will be by the Annie Rost & Mike Stroup Band.
The proceeds generated from this event will benefit the future TCHCC Blacksmith Shop construction in the Village. The Blacksmith Shop will be available for future generations to learn about a trade that was very important to the life of a community, and a farm, in the early days of Texas’ settlements. The Blacksmith Shop will be a working museum and events will be held in it throughout the year. There is no admission to the event. Donations are welcomed.
The Texas Czech Heritage & Cultural Center is located at 250 W. Fairgrounds Rd. on HWY 77 just North of La Grange. See you Jan. 27 and 28.
