BGOPINFO@gmail.com

The Blacksmiths' Guild of the Potomac

To provide guidance to beginners and experienced smiths alike, creating fellowship with all who share an interest in blacksmithing.

THE BLACKSMITHS’ GUILD OF THE POTOMAC 

We are located in Arlington, VA at the Arlington Parks – Gulf Branch Nature Center. The historic forge is located within the park.

Blacksmithing Classes, Demonstrations & Education

Events Calendar

View Calendar

The Blacksmiths’ Guild of the Potomac, Inc.
Gulf Branch Nature Center
3608 North Military Rd
Arlington, VA 22207

About Us

THE BLACKSMITHS’ GUILD OF THE POTOMAC (BGOP) is a nonprofit educational organization and an affiliate of the Artist Blacksmith’s Association of North America (ABANA). We are located in Northern Virginia and serve members living in Virginia, Washington DC, Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

BGOP was formed through the vision and efforts of H. Eugene Montgomery in August of 1979 by a small group of individuals. This group received instruction in forging ornamental iron from Nol Putnam of White Oak Forge and Jim Flemming of Yonna Valley Forge. Our membership in October 1979 barely exceeded twenty. As of January 2024 we have grown to more than 250 members.

Contact Us

Board of Directors

President:
Marnie Dollinger

VP:
Phil Heath

Treasurer:
Keith Kuck

Secretary:
Mike Briskin

Board Members:
Darius Johnson
Ed Slepecki
Chris Price
Eric Johnson

Board members and committee chairs can be reached at: bgopinfo@gmail.com

Committee Chairs

Newsletter Editor:
Marnie Dollinger

Membership Chairman:
Danny Clark

Web Master:
Simon Shtipelman
Marnie Dollinger

Librarian:
George Anderton

Shopmaster:
Phil Heath

“Friends of the Gulf Branch Nature Center” Representatives: