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
Application for Non-Credit Bladesmithing Classes
Non-Credit Community Classes
| Course | Date | Time | Instructor | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Blacksmithing Course | March 14-15 | 8AM to 5PM | Luke Sorensen | $350 |
| Hunting Knife Course | April 20-23 | 8AM to 5PM | Adam Millet | $525 |
| Bowie Knife Course | May 4-8 | 8AM to 5PM | Ricardo Vilar | $525 |
| Axe Making Course | May 23-24 | 8AM to 5PM | Lin Rhea | $350 |
| Blacksmithing Course | June 20-21 | 8AM to 5PM | Luke Sorensen | $350 |
| Knife Kit Class | July 11-12 | 8AM to 5PM | Adam Mille | $350 |
| Advanced Transitional Damascus Course | September 14-18 | 8AM to 5PM | JR Cook | $525 |
| X-Rhea Knife Course | October 22-24 | 8AM to 5PM | Lin Rhea |
$450 |
| Open Lab Course | October 26-30 | 8AM-5PM |
JR Cook & Adam Mille |
$850 |
| Veteran Course | November 2-6 | 8AM to 5PM |
JR Cook |
Scholarship |