Bill Gitchner
The ANVIL’S RING • Summer 2001 •

To the ABANA membership,
I consider anvil shoots very dangerous. They do nothing to help the public determine the present state of blacksmithing or what it is all about. We have been fortunate that there have not as yet been any serious accidents. I thank the Lord for looking after us so well.
As an early member of ABANA, but not a founder, I am glad to say I have been a part of the development of blacksmithing. I have done my best to help any and all blacksmiths, beginner or expert. I have answered the questions from new and old smiths alike about where they may find an organization that will help fulfill their desires and dreams. Think of how far we have come since Alex Bealer first published his book and since then, with the help of his book.
Think of what we have accomplished for blacksmithing through ABANA. I have been at the forge for 50 years. The first 20 were pretty lonely. Now with ABANA we are 5000 strong. The Boy Scouts reintroduced the metalworking merit badge; and we have many new and younger members.
Please put personal likes and dislikes aside. Put yourself on the side of opposing anvil shoots which to me are so dangerous and say nothing about the true art of smithing today.

Bill Gichner,
Ocean View, Delaware

Editor’s Note: See President’s Message in this issue for more information on the Boy Scout metalworking merit badge.